Coagulopathy Associated With Dilatation and Evacuation for Intrauterine Fetal Death

Dilatation and evacuation was reported recently to be a safe and effective method for the treatment of intrauterine fetal death. The current authors have treated ten cases of intrauterine fetal death with dilatation and evacuation. Five patients (50%) developed coagulopathy, one of whom also developed endometritis. Patients who developed coagulopathy were significantly older than those who did not. Previous pregnancy also was associated with the development of coagulopathy. Five of six multigravidas developed coagulopathy, whereas none of the four primigravidas developed this complication. Other factors that may have contributed to the development of coagulopathy are discussed. The authors conclude that dilatation and evacuation for midtrimester intrauterine fetal death may not be as safe as has been reported.