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Absorbable staples for uterine incision at caesarean section.
1Department of Perinatal Medicine/University Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Women's and Children's Hospital, 72 King William Road, North Adelaide, South Australia, Australia, 5006. cwilkins@medicine.adelaide.edu.au.
The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
|May 5, 2000
Summary
Using staples to extend uterine incisions during caesarean sections may reduce blood loss but can prolong delivery time. More evidence is needed before routine use of stapling devices is recommended.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Surgical Innovation
- Maternal Health
Background:
- Surgical staples are sometimes used to minimize blood loss from incision edges.
- Extending the uterine incision is a common step in lower segment caesarean sections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of using absorbable staples to extend the uterine incision during lower segment caesarean sections.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review of randomized and quasi-randomized trials was conducted.
- Searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group trials register.
- Compared stapling devices with digital or scissor methods for uterine incision extension.
Main Results:
- Four trials with 526 women were analyzed.
- Stapling did not alter total operating time but increased the time to deliver the baby.
- Lower blood loss was observed with the use of staples.
Conclusions:
- Insufficient evidence supports the routine use of stapling devices for uterine incision extension in caesarean sections.
- Potential harm exists due to prolonged delivery time with stapling devices.