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Complications following caesarean delivery at King Edward VIII hospital, Durban, South Africa: original article
Abstract
Aim: This study was designed to determine the prevalence of complications associated with caesarean section in a setting of high caesarean section and HIV rates.
Setting: A tertiary teaching hospital in Durban, South Africa.
Design: A retrospective analysis.
Methods: A detailed review of the records of 737 caesarean sections performed over a three month period.
Results: The overall complication rate was 14.2%. Major complications included bladder injury, endometritis, wound sepsis and post-partum haemorrhage. HIV infection may have a negative impact on morbidity rates. Disimpacting the fetal head vaginally had a significant association with endometritis (p=0.021). The use of a corrugated drain did not prevent wound sepsis (p < 0.001).
Conclusion: Complications associated with caesarean section are common is a setting of high caesarean section rates and HIV infection.
O & B Forum Vol.14(2) 2004: 21-26
Setting: A tertiary teaching hospital in Durban, South Africa.
Design: A retrospective analysis.
Methods: A detailed review of the records of 737 caesarean sections performed over a three month period.
Results: The overall complication rate was 14.2%. Major complications included bladder injury, endometritis, wound sepsis and post-partum haemorrhage. HIV infection may have a negative impact on morbidity rates. Disimpacting the fetal head vaginally had a significant association with endometritis (p=0.021). The use of a corrugated drain did not prevent wound sepsis (p < 0.001).
Conclusion: Complications associated with caesarean section are common is a setting of high caesarean section rates and HIV infection.
O & B Forum Vol.14(2) 2004: 21-26
