Improved antenatal care at Tygerberg Hospital

Abstract

Because the high perinatal mortality rate of Cape Coloured patients served by Tygerberg Hospital was of great concern, we initiated several research projects to address this problem. At first we planned three separate studies to ascertain the causes of perinatal deaths. Abruptio placentae and preterm labour were identified as the two most common causes. Several studies were then done to assess risk factors for abruptio placentae and to establish how foetal distress due to abruptio placentae could be detected earlier. At the same time we also concentrated on improving our antenatal care and foetal assessment. All relevant findings of our research projects were immediately implemented clinically. A marked decrease in the perinatal mortality rate of patients with severe pre-eclampsia was achieved, as well as a decline in the overall rate.