[Pathologic analysis of the placenta in preterm deliveries].

The results of pathological analysis of 198 placentae from preterm deliveries of 28-37 week pregnancy in year 1985-1988 were presented Grossly there were: placenta previa and low implantation 2.91%, bipartate placenta and rupture of marginal sinus 0.97%, large placenta 2.91%, short cord 4.85%, velamentous insertion of cord 3.88, etc; all significantly different from those from term deliveries statistically. Microscopic, 165 placentae showed: infection of membranes and umbilical vessels in 19 (11.52%), of which 11 cases were with premature rupture of membranes or cervical interventions and 8 could be regarded as the cause of preterm delivery. Among 72 PIH cases, 65 (90.28%) had arteriopathy of decidual capsularis. Notably 18 cases (25%) of PIH were not diagnosed as such clinically until the discovery of arteriopathy of decidual capsularis microscopically and upon reviewing the case history. Combining with placental examinations, it is possible to tell the cause of preterm delivery whether in placenta, amniotic fluid or umbilical cord. In 20 PIH cases (27.78% of total PIH) with premature rupture of membranes, whether the decidual arteriopathy makes it liable to have membranes ruptured needs further study.