Introduction to operative delivery - caesarean section
This tutorial costs £15.00
Caesarean section is the process of delivering the baby through an abdominal incision. The rate of caesarean section varies not only between different countries but also between different hospitals.
The caesarean section rate has risen from about 3% in the 1950s to 15% in the mid 1990s. In 2004, the National Sentinel Caesarean Section Audit reported that the rate of caesarean section had risen to 23%.
Caesarean section carries a four-fold risk of maternal death compared with vaginal delivery. Maternal mortality is higher for emergency caesarean section compared with elective procedures.
Maternal morbidity and mortality from caesarean section can be reduced if correct surgical techniques are used. No two procedures are the same, and correct preparation and anticipation of complications are vital if maternal morbidity is to be avoided.
There are variations in surgical technique and an awareness of different approaches to caesarean section allows the obstetrician to adapt to unexpected scenarios that might be encountered during the operation.
This e-tutorial will focus on the practical aspects of caesarean section and on the complications that might be encountered during and after the procedure. On completion of this e-tutorial, you will be aware of the methods used during caesarean section to reduce operative morbidity.
You will also learn new techniques that will assist you in your daily practice.
Learning objectives When you have completed this tutorial you will be familiar with: - the indications for caesarean section
- the preparation of the patient for caesarean section
- the surgical techniques of caesarean section
- the management of the common complications of caesarean section
- how to reduce maternal and neonatal morbidity associated with caesarean section.
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Last updated: 21/05/10 (tutorial reviewed and updated by Dr Junny Chan)
08/01/09 (paper added in the 'Patient preperation', 'Timing' section)
3/12/08 (news article and abstract added in the 'Preliminary reading' section).