Comparison between fetal fibronectin and cervical index in early detection of preterm labor

ABSTRACT

The present study will compare between two methods of diagnosis of preterm labor, which are, Transvaginal Ultrasonography [for cervical index] and fetal fibronectin in cervicovaginal secretions and to evaluate their rules in early detection of preterm labor. This is a prospective study carried out at Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Suez Canal University Hospital, Ismailia Governor ate [2001-2002]. The study was carried out on Patients attending the department of Obstetric and Gynecology who were pregnant >/= 24 - < 37 weeks of gestation and at risk of preterm labor. The material of the study included 50 cases divided into two groups according to strict inclusion criteria. Each case was subjected to thorough questionnaire obstetric examination, determination of fibronectin level in cervico-vaginal secretions and estimation of the cervical index. The results of the study showed the superiority of the fibronectin estimation for the earlier detection of cases subjected to impending preterm delivery compared to cervical index. The conclusion of the study is that the combined use of cervical index and fibronectin assay give better anticipation to cases with impending preterm delivery