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

1. Preoperative preparation including administration of anesthesia.
2. A horizontal incision is made in the lower abdomen (bikini line).
3. Another incision is made in the uterus.
4. The baby is carefully delivered through the incisions.
5. The placenta is then removed.
6. 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.