The Caesarean Section

This book is a comprehensive guide to caesarean section for practising obstetricians.

Divided into four sections, the text begins with an overview of anatomy and physiology in childbirth, followed by discussion on diagnosis in clinical obstetrics and use of a partograph to record key data on both the mother and baby during labour.

Section three covers the complete process of caesarean section, describing indications for the operation, anaesthesia, and the actual procedure. A chapter is dedicated to perimortem and post-mortem caesarean delivery. Postoperative recovery and potential complications are also explained.

The final section of the book examines alternatives to caesarean section surgery.

With a highly experienced team of authors, this practical guide is further enhanced by more than 300 illustrations and tables.

Key points

• Comprehensive guide to caesarean section for practising obstetricians
• Covers complete procedure, from indications and anaesthesia, to operating techniques and complications
• Includes chapter on perimortem and post-mortem caesarean delivery
• Final section covers alternatives to caesarean section surgery

Section 1: Anatomy and Physiology of Parturition

• Parturition
• Birth Canal (Passageway)
• Uterus
• Passenger (Foetus)
• Mechanism and Physiopathology of Parturition

Section 2: Diagnosis

• Diagnosis in Clinical Obstetrics
• Partograph

Section 3: Caesarean Section and Management

• Indications for Caesarean Section Outside Labour
• Indications for Caesarean Section During Labour
• Trial of Labour
• Preparing for the Operation
• Anaesthesia
• Laparotomies
• The Various Types of Hysterotomy—Criteria of Choice
• Transverse Hysterotomies
• Vertical Hysterotomies
• Management of Intraoperative Complications
• Tubal Sterilization
• Abdominal Wall Closure
• Perimortem and Postmortem Caesarean Delivery
• Uterine Rupture
• Monitoring Caesarean Section: Postoperative Recovery
• Complications of the Laparotomic Wound Suture
• Postcaesarean Wound Dehiscence
• Obstructed Labour Injury Complex
• The Newborn

Section 4: Alternatives to Caesarean Section

• Version—Breech Presentation, Transverse and Oblique Lies
• Symphysiotomy–Vacuum Extraction (Foetus Alive–Head Engaged)
• Destructive Operations—A Vanishing Art in Modern Obstetrics

Erik Domini MD FCOG
Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Ospedale St. Spirito, Nizza Monferrato, Italy; Father Ambrosoli Memorial Hospital, Kalongo, Uganda

Sara Guazzini MD FCOG
Former Registrar

Monica Guidi MD FCOG
Former Registrar

Stefano Vicentini MD
Medical Superintendent

All at Department of Obstetrics, St Kizito Hospital, Matany, Uganda