keisarinleikkauksen

Keisarinleikkaus, or keisarinleikkaus in Finnish, iskelä toimenpide, a surgical delivery method in which a baby is delivered through incisions in the abdomen and uterus. It is performed when vaginal birth would pose risks to the mother or baby, or when labor does not progress as planned.

Indications include previous cesarean deliveries, cephalopelvic disproportion, abnormal fetal presentation (for example breech or transverse lie), placenta previa or placental abruption, multiple pregnancy, certain medical conditions, or urgent obstetric indications requiring rapid delivery. There are planned (elective) cesarean sections and emergency cesareans, as well as repeat cesareans and first-time procedures. The abdominal incision is usually horizontal in the lower abdomen (Pfannenstiel), and the uterus is typically opened with a low transverse incision; vertical uterine incisions may be used in some circumstances.

Procedure and anesthesia: the operation is commonly performed under regional anesthesia (spinal or epidural) or, less commonly, general anesthesia. After access to the uterus, a uterine incision is made, the baby is delivered, the placenta is removed, and the incisions are closed. Recovery in hospital typically lasts a few days for uncomplicated cases, with full recovery taking several weeks.

Risks and considerations: maternal risks include infection, bleeding, injury to surrounding organs, and anesthesia-related complications; neonatal risks include temporary breathing difficulties. Long-term considerations for future pregnancies include higher risks of placenta previa or placenta accreta, particularly after prior cesareans. Alternatives include vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) for some suitable pregnancies.

Prevalence and context: cesarean section rates vary by country and over time, influenced by medical guidelines, maternal preferences, and health system factors.