Techniques for performing caesarean section

In many countries caesarean section has become the mode of delivery in over a quarter of all births. Safety of the mother and cost are the two main ar eas of concern. Various studies on the techniques of performing a caesarean section have focused on reducing the operating time, blood loss, wound inf ection and cost. Given the fact that caesarean section is the most commonly performed operation in obstetrics, it is important that trainers and train ees are familiar with the basic surgical techniques and that best practice is followed. At the same time surgeons should take necessary precautions to reduce their risk of exposure to Hepatitis B and HIV. The skin incision and entry into abdominal cavity is best achieved by the m odified Cohen's incision. The lower segment transverse uterine incision has stood the test of time over a period of 75 years and remains the best way to enter the uterus. Closure of the uterus in single layer appears to be ac ceptable, whenever technically possible. placental delivery should be by co ntrolled cord traction after spontaneous expulsion. Closure of the visceral and parietal layers of the peritoneum no longer seems to be necessary. Obl iteration of space in the subcutaneous layer, either by suture or by suctio n, seems to reduce wound disruption, These issues are being considered in t he CAESAR randomized controlled trial of surgical techniques currently unde rway in England. Prophylactic antibiotics are mandatory in preventing post-operative morbidi ty. Many of the above mentioned steps have been tested in randomized trials . Further studies are needed to examine a wide range of questions arising f rom this review, e.g. best position of the patient, the value of exterioriz ation of the uterus whilst repairing the uterus, and the use of agents to r elax the uterus in difficult deliveries.