Comparison of intracardiac and intrathecal KCL application as an alternative method in the reduction of multiple pregnancies in the first trimester: Results of a tertiary centre

• Published in: Academic Journal of Health Vol. 1; no. 3; pp. 76 - 80
• Main Authors: Aktemur,Gizem, Tokgöz Çakır,Betül, Sucu,Sadun, Karabay,Gülşan, Bucak,Mevlüt, Ulusoy,Can Ozan, İskender,Can Tekin
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Kare Yayıncılık 01-03-2023
• Subjects: Sağlık Hizmetleri; Tıp; İstanbul; Türkiye; intrathecal fetosid; multiple pregnancy; Fetal reduction; intracardiac fetosid
• ISSN: 3023-4050
• DOI: 10.14744/ajh.2023.60362

Objectives: This retrospective study compares the outcomes of intracranial (IC) and intrathoracic (IT)
potassium chloride (KCl) applications for fetal reduction in multiple pregnancies.
Methods: Nineteen patients undergoing termination between December 2022 and November 2023
were analyzed. Transabdominal IC (n=8) and IT (n=11) KCl groups were compared for maternal age,
gestational age, indication for reduction, and procedural details. P-values <0.05 were interpreted as
statistically significant.
Results: While both groups exhibited similar maternal characteristics, the number of fetuses before
reduction differed significantly (p=0.016). No significant distinctions were observed in operative time,
reduction outcomes, or obstetric complications between the IC and IT groups (p>0.05). Premature
rupture of membranes occurred in 13.3% (IT) and 23.1% (IC), with no significant intergroup differences.
Conclusion: The study suggests that IC KCl application may be a viable alternative, potentially simplifying
the procedure without compromising safety or efficacy. The findings advocate for a nuanced
approach to selecting the reduction method based on fetal position and number, highlighting the
need for further research with larger sample sizes.