Cesarean and postpartum hysterectomy

Objective: To review the cases of cesarean and postpartum hysterectomy. Method: A retrospective study of all cases of cesarean and postpartum hysterectomy during 1985-1994. Maternal characteristics, method of delivery, indications for hysterectomy and complications were reviewed. Results: The rate of cesarean and postpartum hysterectomy was 1:1667 deliveries, Half of these cases were delivered by cesarean section. The main indications for hysterectomy were massive bleeding due to uterine atony, abnormal placental adhesions or uterine rupture. Maternal morbidity was high and there was one maternal death. Conclusion: Cesarean and postpartum hysterectomy is a necessary life-saving operation. Although maternal mortality is rare, morbidity remains high. Prevention of complications that give rise to hysterectomy and optimally timed surgery should decrease maternal morbidity and mortality.