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Accidental incision of the fetus at caesarian section
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital Enugu, Nigeria.
Background:
Caesarian section is the most common major surgical procedure among women of reproductive age. It is thought to be safer for the baby than the mother. However, the baby is at risk of laceration injury.
Methods:
Retrospective review of clinical records of women who were delivered by caesarian section during a seven-year period from January 1, 1991 to December 31, 1997.
Results:
Fetal laceration injury was documented in 0.55% of live caesarian section births. Accidental incision of the fetus was associated with emergency caesarian section, ruptured membranes and relative inexperience of the operating surgeon. Documentation of injury was poor and there was no evidence that parents were counselled.
Conclusion:
Laceration of the fetus is an occasional complication of caesarian section. Proper documentation and counselling of parents are required especially as there are potential medicolegal implications. Careful attention to the technique of uterine entry at caesarian section should reduce the risk of injury to the fetus.
