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Abdominal Hysterectomy for Benign Gynaecological Conditions at Ibadan, Nigeria


Olumuyiwa A Roberts
Michael A Okunlola

Abstract

Context: Total abdominal hysterectomy is one of the commonly performed major gynaecological operations in our hospital and it is desirable to review its safety in view of the advanced pathology that is frequently encountered.


Objective: To determine the indications for and the pattern of morbidity and mortality in abdominal hysterectomy done for benign conditions over a 10-year period.


Study Design: A retrospective study of all cases of abdominal hysterectomy for benign conditions over a ten-year period.


Main Outcome Measures: The relative proportion of cases of abdominal hysterectomy compared to the total number of operations, the prevalence of various peri- and post-operative complications or mortality.


Results: Total abdominal hysterectomy accounted for 10.2% of all major gynaecological operations during the study period. The indication was uterine fibroids in 82% of cases done for benign indications. The crude morbidity rate was 31% and there was no mortality.


Conclusion: In spite of advanced pathology, abdominal hysterectomy for benign conditions is a fairly safe procedure in UCH Ibadan. There is a need to further reduce the high morbidity rate associated with the procedure especially the use of peri-operative antibiotic prophylaxis.

(Tropical Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 2001, 18(1): 19-23)

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eISSN: 0189-5117