Second stage caesarean section: evaluation of patwardhan technique.

Objective: To compare the maternal and neonatal morbidities between the Patwardhan technique and the routine "Push" and "Pull" method for extraction of the foetus in second stage caesarean sections.

Method: Retrospective analysis was done of all caesarean sections performed in full dilatation of cervix in 3 years between 2004 to 2006. All the cases were divided into two groups. Group 1 being the Patwardhan technique group and Group 2 where baby was delivered as cephalic or as breech. Maternal morbidity in terms of uterine extensions, need for blood transfusions, as well as, neonatal morbidity, was compared between the two techniques.

Results: Review of 79 patients revealed significantly less number of uterine extensions, as well as, need for blood transfusions with Patwardhan technique, which thus amounted to a decreased maternal morbidity. However, there were no differences in neonatal outcomes in both the groups.

Conclusion: Patwardhan technique is a superior and a safe technique for delivery of foetus in second stage caesarean sections as compared to "Push" and "Pull" methods. While foetal complications are comparable in both methods, maternal morbidities are lesser in Patwardhan technique.