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Abstract
We collected basic data about caesarean sections (CS) performed in the largest maternity hospital in Scotland (Simpson Memorial Maternity Pavilion; SMMP) and to compare practice with that described in the National Sentinel Caesarean Section Audit (2001) undertaken by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG). The study period was 01/02/01–28/02/01. Information was entered into the RCOG denominator form (all deliveries) and numerator form (all CS). Statistical analysis was performed in Excel and the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). For purposes of comparison, the SMMP results will be followed by the RCOG data in parenthesis. The caesarean section rate was 21% (18%). The instrumental delivery rate was 13% (13%) with the forceps and ventouse rates being 10% (2.9–5.7%) and 3% (5.7–9.7%), respectively. The chief indication for primary CS was presumed fetal distress (45%; 28%) with the chief indication for repeat CS being fetal distress in the SMMP (23%) and previous CS (44%) in the RCOG audit. Relatively few fetal blood samples were performed in SMMP (8%; 44%) prior to CS. In the SMMP 100% (86%) of CS received antibiotics. All had at least pneumatic boots (100%; 36%) and most had heparin prophylaxis (90%; 52%).