A review of the methods at present used in the treatment of placenta prævia

Conclusions

• 1. The facts emerging from the analysis of the figures in the treatment of the various types of placenta prævia by different methods deserve discussion. It is suggested that revision of our present treatment would improve the fœtal and maternal results.

• 2. At the present time, Cæsarean section is not used with sufficient frequency in the treatment of placenta prævia.

• 3. Simple puncture of the membranes offers the best combined fœtal and maternal results in lateral and marginal placenta prævia.

• 4. Bipolar version should be reserved for the actively bleeding and exsanguinated cases, particularly when the central placenta prævia is encountered in general practice.

• 5. The figures relative to the use of the Willet’s forceps are so discouraging that further use of this technique should be questioned.