Widening the indications for cesarean section

ABSTRACT

1. A review of cesarean sections done at the Philippine General Hospital during two separate periods is made, to indicate the increasing incidence and scope of cesarean section2. The effects of the broadening scope of cesarean section on the hemorrhages are shown, particularly on maternal and infant mortality3. The ill-effects of the broadening scope of cesarean section is shown on the incidence of rupture, and incidence of sterilization on 117 primary sections out of 773 sections done at the Philippine General Hospital from 1945 to the close of 19514. Our conclusion is that the immediate good effects outweigh the remote ill-effects of the obstetric cripple, since these are preventable by good skill and judgment on the lst section, massive antibiotics and blood transfusion to aid in the healing and prophylactic measures on all previous sectioned cases5. While the good results justify the broadening of the indications for the operation, there is a tendency to abuse the operation in preference to vaginal delivery; but this tendency can be controlled through good obstetric judgment and an honest conscience. (Summary and conclusions)