Value of symphysiotomy in obstructed labour management and follow-up of 31 cases.
Experience of 32 cases of symphysiotomy carried out in Mozambique and in Botswana is reviewed. Of all cases only 1 was lost to follow-up. The observation period varied from 7 days to 6 months. Among 31 cases examined at discharge or on return from check-up few complications occurred. Vaginal laceration occurred in 3 cases, haematuria in 1 case and wound infection in 1 case. In 2 cases there was significant postoperative pain causing gait problems, but in no case were there significant problems with pain at discharge or at follow-up. It is concluded that the intervention is seldom complicated by severe sequelae, provided strict adherence to given indications is respected. In rural areas in the third world symphysiotomy is a life-saving and simple surgical intervention, which should be regarded as an adjunct measure in some cases with a moderately contracted pelvic outlet incompatible with normal vaginal delivery.
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden.
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S
Bergström
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H
Lublin
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A
Molin
D001902:Botswana; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D009073:Mozambique; D007744:Obstetric Labor Complications / Q000601:surgery*; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D011247:Pregnancy; D013567:Symphysiotomy