Blood transfusion and caesarean section in a developing country

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Transfusion Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Blood transfusion during caesarean section is a critical intervention.
• Developing countries face unique challenges in managing blood resources and transfusion practices.
• Rising rates of blood-borne diseases, including HIV, necessitate careful consideration of transfusion necessity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and analyze blood transfusion practices during caesarean sections in a developing country.
• To identify the rates and indications for blood transfusions in this population.
• To determine significant risk factors associated with blood transfusion during caesarean sections.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective audit of 463 consecutive caesarean sections and associated blood transfusions over a 3-year period (2000-2002).
• Data collected from medical records using a pre-designed proforma.
• Statistical analysis performed using EPI-info Statistical Software version 6.

Main Results:

• A total of 117 out of 463 (25.2%) caesarean section cases received blood transfusions.
• The highest transfusion rates were observed for placenta praevia (59.1%) and uterine rupture (55.6%).
• Significant risk factors for transfusion included caesarean section indications, preoperative anemia, and quantity of blood loss during surgery.

Conclusions:

• The overall blood transfusion rate of 25.2% during caesarean sections is considered high.
• Efforts are needed to reduce blood transfusion rates without compromising maternal safety and increasing morbidity/mortality.
• Minimizing unnecessary transfusions is crucial due to the prevalence of blood-borne diseases in developing nations.