[Respiratory complications in early elective caesarean section]. / Respiratoire complicaties bij vroege electieve sectio caesarea.

Two neonates were born via elective caesarean section, after 38 2/7 and 38 0/7 weeks of gestation, respectively. They developed serious respiratory complications: a pneumothorax and respiratory insufficiency, respectively, for which they were transferred to a neonatal intensive care unit and were mechanically ventilated. If a caesarean section is performed before 39 0/7 weeks of gestation, the risk of respiratory complications, such as idiopathic respiratory distress syndrome or wet lung disease, is increased. Despite this scientific evidence, elective caesarean sections continue to be planned before 39 weeks of gestation.