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Am J Perinatol 2001; 18(4): 225-236
DOI: 10.1055/s-2001-15505
ORIGINAL ARTICLES

Copyright © 2001 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Maternal and Neonatal Outcome of 100 Consecutive Triplet Pregnancies

Patricia C. Devine1 2 , Fergal D. Malone1 2 , Achilles Athanassiou2 , Karen Harvey-Wilkes2 , Mary E. D'Alton1 2
  • 1New York Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University, New York and
  • 2New England Medical Center, Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts
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Publication History

Publication Date:
31 December 2001 (online)

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ABSTRACT

The objective of this study is to determine the maternal and neonatal outcome of a large group of triplet gestations. A retrospective review of 100 triplet gestations managed and delivered between January 1992 and September 1999 by a single perinatal group is examined. These pregnancies were managed on an outpatient basis. Prophylactic interventions were not utilized. Ninety-six percent of the pregnancies had at least one complication, with preterm labor the most common. The median gestational age at delivery was 33 weeks (range 20.4 to 37, SD 4.1 weeks) with 14% of pregnancies delivering prior to 28 weeks' gestation. The corrected perinatal mortality rate was 97/1000. Minimal long-term morbidity was seen with delivery after 27 weeks' gestation. Pregnancy outcome did not vary with birth order or mode of conception. Triplet pregnancy is associated with a high rate of antenatal complications. Favorable neonatal outcome can be obtained without the use of prophylactic interventions.

KEYWORD

Triplet gestation - maternal and neonatal outcome

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