Destructive operation in obstetric practice in Nigeria

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Public Health
• Surgical Procedures

Background:

• Destructive operations, though rare, represent a significant challenge in obstetric care.
• The University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH) serves a large population and acts as a primary and tertiary care center.
• Understanding trends in destructive operations is crucial for improving maternal outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the incidence and indications of destructive operations over a nine-year period at UNTH.
• To assess the associated maternal morbidity and mortality.
• To propose strategies for reducing the use of destructive operations and their complications.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of obstetric practice data at UNTH over nine years.
• Identification of cases involving destructive operations.
• Review of indications, maternal outcomes, and complications.

Main Results:

• The incidence of destructive operations declined from 0.29% to 0.05% over the study period.
• Obstructed labor was the predominant indication for these operations.
• High rates of maternal morbidity and mortality were observed, primarily associated with the underlying indications.

Conclusions:

• While the incidence of destructive operations has decreased, obstructed labor remains a critical issue.
• Preventive measures focusing on health education, efficient obstetric services, and improved manpower training are essential.
• Eliminating the need for destructive operations can significantly reduce maternal complications and mortality.