Destructive operation in obstetric practice in Nigeria

An analysis of the use of destructive operation in obstetric practice at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital Enugu over a nine year period has been carried out. The hospital is the only Teaching Hospital in the State of six million people, and serves a dual role of tertiary and primary care centre. The incidence of destructive operation fell from 0.29% in the first three years to 0.06% and 0.05% in the second and third year periods respectively. The main indication for the operation was obstructed labour. The incidence of maternal morbidity and mortality was high and was related more to the indications for the destructive operation then the actual operation. Suggested methods for eliminating its use and complications include health education, provision of efficient obstetric services and adequate training of available manpower.