Cesarean Section: Complications of Labor and Delivery

Cesarean section or C-section refers to the use of surgery to aid the delivery of a baby. It is performed when a vaginal delivery puts the baby or the mother at risk. Cases of obstructed labor, problems with the umbilical cord or placenta, high blood pressure, twin pregnancy or breech birth can present risks to the delivery. The surgery is performed depending on the shape of the mother's pelvis and the history of previous C-section. Cesarean section can be performed under regional anesthesia or general anesthesia. Regional anesthesia offers advantages such as absence of risks of pulmonary aspiration of gastric contents and prevention of persistent post operative pain for long duration. General anesthesia may however be necessary in severe fetal distress, or when patients experience heavy uncontrolled breathing. The procedure is associated with risks of incisional hernias that may require surgical correction, postoperative adhesions and wound infections. This book discusses the fundamentals as well as modern approaches of cesarean section. It provides insight into the complications of labor and delivery which will be crucial for the management of pregnancy and childbirth. This book includes contributions of experts and scientists which will provide innovative insights into this procedure.