Perimortem caesarean section: Two cases performed in New Zealand hospitals

Perimortem caesarean section is a term many obstetricians are familiar with despite few encountering it first-hand. It is estimated the intervention will be needed every 53 000 maternities. Despite this rarity it is vital clinicians are trained in detecting and intervening where perimortem caesarean is required. In New Zealand eight perimortem caesareans were performed from 2006 to 2013. Here we discuss two perimortem caesarean sections performed in two New Zealand hospitals alongside current guidance and recommendations.