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A Reappraisal of Indications for Abdominal Delivery at a Referral Health Institution in South East Nigeria


UM Agwu
OUJ Umeora
G Umahi

Abstract

Background: There is a globalworry about the increase in the rate of caesarean section despite attempts to reduce the rising trend especially in developing countries where the figures are competing seriously with those for developed counties.
Objective: The study assesses the current caesarean section rate in the hospital, compare it with past figures and appraise the indications for the Caesarean sections.
Materials and Method: Case records of all cases of caesarean section managed in the hospital over a three-year period (1st of January 2006 to 31st of December 2008) were analyzed.
Results: A total of 4005 deliveries were undertaken during the study period (1st of January 2006 to 31st of December 2008.Out of which 736 were caesarean section giving an incidence of Caesarean section to
be 18.4%. The commonest indication is previous Caesarean section, accounting for 19.6%. This is followed by obstructed labour (11.7%) and presumed foetal distress (7.9%).

Conclusion: There is a rising trend in caesarean section rate. There is need for more comprehensive audit, taking into consideration the opinion of the consultants and patients if the rate should be curbed. There is also need to improve facilities to pick true foetal distress before embarking on
Caesarean section.

Key words: Caesarean Section, Indications, Fetal Distress, Obstructed Labour, Nigeria,

Running Header: Indications for Abdominal Delivery


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eISSN: 0189-5117