ABSTRACT
A retrospective study of 45 cases of complete placenta previa is presented. Expectant
management of the premature infant using tocolytics, blood transfusion, and cesarean
section was practiced. All patients were suspected of having placenta previa based
upon ultrasound examination; 90% reported third-trimester bleeding; 48% required prepartum
blood transfusion; and 80% experienced one or more complications. Premature delivery
occurred in 67% of patients; tocolysis was initiated in 53%. Patients with previa
were older, of higher parity, and more likely to have had a previous cesarean section
or abortion than matched controls.
