Caesarean Sections Flashcards
When are vertical incisions used?
- pre term babies 24/25 weeks (lower segment hasn’t formed yet) - allows you to cut further up or down if needed
- fibroids present
- very rapid delivery required
What are the types of Caesarean section?
- classic (vertical) - rarely done
- lower uterine segment incision (horizontal) - 99% of cases
How many births in Scotland are via C section?
32%
1/2 are elective
What are the indications of Caesarean section?
- foetal distress
- failure to progress in labour
- failed induction of labour
- malpresentation
- severe pre-eclampsia
- placenta praevia
- twin pregnancy with non-cephalic presenting twin
- repeat Caesarean section
What is an emergency C section?
Within 30 mins
immediate threat to women or foetus
What is an urgent C section?
Within 90 minutes
maternal or foetal compromise but not life threatening
What is a scheduled C section?
No time limit
when baby requires early delivery but there’s no compromise
What is an elective C section?
No time limit
done at a time to suit the woman and maternity team
What prophylaxis/procedures are done to minimise C section risks?
- prophylactic antibiotics
- low molecular weight heparin
- catheterisation
What are risks after C sections?
- placenta praevia
- placenta accreta
- antepartum stillbirth
- uterine rupture
- post operative adhesions
- injury to structures
Why is a C section more dangerous when fully dilated?
The longer you have been in labour, the poorer the contraction of the uterus (once it is fully dilated), meaning theres an increased risk of post part haemorrhage.
