Cesarean delivery only; including postpartum care
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Cesarean Delivery (Common names: C-section, Cesarean section)
Summary
A Cesarean delivery, commonly known as a C-section, is a surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through incisions made in the mother's abdomen and uterus. It is performed when a vaginal delivery would pose a risk to the mother or baby.
Purpose
A C-section is conducted to safely deliver a baby when vaginal delivery is not possible or would be dangerous. The goals are to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and the infant.
Indications
- Labor that is not progressing.
- Fetal distress.
- Breech or other abnormal positions.
- Multiple pregnancies (e.g., twins or triplets).
- Placenta previa (placenta covering the cervix).
- Medical conditions in the mother (e.g., high blood pressure, diabetes).
- Previous C-section.
Preparation
- Fasting for 8 hours before the procedure.
- Adjustments to medications as advised by a physician.
- Preoperative blood tests and possibly imaging tests.
- Anesthesia consultation to discuss options (general anesthesia or regional anesthesia like an epidural).
Procedure Description
- Preoperative preparation including administration of anesthesia.
- A horizontal incision is made in the lower abdomen (bikini line).
- Another incision is made in the uterus.
- The baby is carefully delivered through the incisions.
- The placenta is then removed.
- The incisions in the uterus and abdomen are closed with sutures.
Tools: Surgical instruments, sutures, anesthesia equipment.
Duration
Typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour.
Setting
Performed in a hospital operating room.
Personnel
- Obstetrician (surgeon)
- Anesthesiologist
- Surgical nurses
- Neonatologist or pediatrician (for the baby)
Risks and Complications
- Infection
- Blood loss
- Blood clots
- Reactions to anesthesia
- Injury to mother’s organs
- Complications in subsequent pregnancies
Benefits
- Safe delivery of baby when vaginal birth is risky.
- Controlled environment reducing risks for both mother and baby.
- Faster resolution in emergencies.
Recovery
- Hospital stay of 3 to 4 days post-delivery.
- Pain management with prescribed medications.
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for 6 weeks.
- Follow-up appointment 2 weeks post-discharge.
- Proper wound care instructions to prevent infection.
Alternatives
- Vaginal delivery: Suitable when no risks are present.
- Induction of labor: Used in some situations to promote vaginal delivery before considering a C-section.
Patient Experience
During the procedure, the patient remains awake if regional anesthesia is used but will feel pressure and pulling rather than pain. Post-procedure, the patient will experience discomfort and need pain management. Full recovery typically takes 6 weeks, with significant improvement within the first two weeks.