Maternal mortality--an avoidable catastrophe

A retrospective study of work-load and maternal mortality over the past 10 years (1976-1985) at the Women's Hospital, Doha was conducted. 68,540 mothers delivered out of which 4,296 through C-section. The maternal mortality rate, although accounts for 17.59 per 100,000 during the first half of the 10 years period, has fallen to 9.96 in the second half. There are no deaths directly or indirectly related to anesthesia. Anesthetic practice and set-up at the Women's Hospital is discussed.