Hyaluronidase versus Foley catheter for cervical ripening in high-risk term and post term pregnancies

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Foley catheter and hyaluronidase for cervical ripening. Method: Randomized controlled trial where 140 pregnant women, with gestational age >= 37 weeks, indication for labor induction and an unripe cervix, were enrolled, allocated in two groups according to the method of cervical ripening before labor induction. Statistical analysis used Student's t-test, Mann-Whitney, Chi-square test, survival analysis, risk ratios and number needed to treat. Results: Time of induction, dose of oxytocin and mode of delivery had better results in the Foley catheter group. Comfort with the method was higher in the hyaluronidase group. Conclusions: Both methods were effective and safe for cervical ripening. The Foley catheter group experienced a shorter period of induction required a tower dose of oxytocin and had higher vaginal delivery rates, while the women who used hyaluronidase declared greater comfort with the method. (c) 2004 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.88325826