[Obstetric hysterectomy. Concept and importance]

Genital hemorrhage continues to be the primary cause of death among fertile women. Hysterectomy, when practiced as a second surgical procedure following an obstetric event, and without having been planned, is an ongoing therapeutic resource. The author depicts the risk profile of women who could eventually undergo obstetric hysterectomy. Certain pathologies, guidelines, surgical technique instructions, and other surgical manouvers are also presented. The causes of surgical re-intervention and other surgical techniques, as well as massive blood loss, and morbidity are assessed. The authors finally emphasize the importance of an early consultation, of a correct surgical technique, the appropriate equipment management, and the measures for preventing the originating pathology.