[Peritoneal suture vs. non-suture at caesarean section]

To assess intraoperative, early and late postoperative morbidity followings non-closure of parietal and visceral peritoneum during caesarean section as compared to usual peritonization. Two groups of 40 pregnant women each were randomized to either closure (n = 40) or non closure (n = 40). Statistical analysis compared intraoperative and postoperative outcome between the two groups.

There was significant reduction in operating and anesthesia time, febrile morbidity, return of bowel function and period of hospitalization among the non closure group. Peritoneal adhesions and upward displacement of bladder were more frequently noted during a subsequent caesarean in the closure group. Non closure of the peritoneum during caesarean section is a shorter, simpler, cost effective procedure associated with lesser febrile morbidity and hospitalization, early return of bowel function, reduced frequency of the postoperative adhesions and upward displacement of bladder.