The Role of Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes (PPROM) on Early Neonatal Mortality and Morbidity: A Case Control Study

Abstract

Introduction: PPROM complicates approximately 3% of pregnancies. It increases the risk of prematurity and leads to a number of other perinatal and neonatal complications. The aim of this study was to assess neonatal mortality and morbidity in 34to 37 weeks of pregnancy with PPROM.Materials and Methods: A case control study including 350 singleton deliveries at 34 to 37 weeks of pregnancy between 2004 and 2006 was made. Of these, 150 women had ruptured membranes and 200 had intact membranes at admission. Early neonatal mortality and morbidity in two groups were compared. Results: The early neonatal morbidity rate including, hyaline membrane disease, pneumothorax, necrotizing enterocolitis, assisted ventilation, sepsis hospitalization period in the Intensive Care Unit, asphyxia and death, were not significantly different in two groups. Conclusion:Our findings suggest that preterm premature rupture of membranes at 34 to 37 weeks have not significant effect on neonatal morbidity and mortality.