The Parkland Memorial Hospital protocol for treatment of eclampsia: evaluation of 245 cases

Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1984 Apr 1;148(7):951-63. doi: 10.1016/0002-9378(84)90538-6.

Abstract

Since 1955, a standardized treatment regimen has been used to manage 245 cases of eclampsia at Parkland Memorial Hospital. Magnesium sulfate alone effectively controlled controlled convulsions in the great majority of cases. The only maternal death among the 245 cases reemphasizes the risk of respiratory arrest that is inherent in the administration of magnesium sulfate when given in large doses intravenously. Hydralazine to lower the diastolic blood pressure somewhat, when it was 110 mm Hg or higher, prevented intracranial hemorrhage. Avoidance of diuretics and hyperosmotic agents and limitation of fluid intake were not associated with severe renal failure. Pulmonary edema was rare. Vaginal delivery was achieved in the majority of cases. Oxytocin often proved effective for initiating and maintaining labor even remote from term. The results obtained with this regimen justify its continued clinical application.

MeSH terms

  • Analgesics / therapeutic use
  • Anesthetics / therapeutic use
  • Delivery, Obstetric
  • Eclampsia / drug therapy*
  • Female
  • Fetal Death / epidemiology
  • Fluid Therapy
  • Humans
  • Hydralazine / therapeutic use
  • Hypertension / drug therapy
  • Infant Mortality
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Magnesium Sulfate / administration & dosage
  • Magnesium Sulfate / adverse effects
  • Magnesium Sulfate / therapeutic use*
  • Pregnancy
  • Respiratory Insufficiency / chemically induced

Substances

  • Analgesics
  • Anesthetics
  • Hydralazine
  • Magnesium Sulfate