Indications and Results of Emergency Hysterectomy in Obstetrics Performed at a Tertiary Care Center: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Introduction: Emergency hysterectomy is a life-saving procedure performed in cases of obstetric emergencies. This study aimed to evaluate the indications, surgical techniques, complications, and outcomes of emergency hysterectomy in a tertiary care hospital.

Methods: This retrospective study included 45 patients who underwent emergency hysterectomy for obstetric emergencies between January 2017 and December 2022. Data on patient demographics, obstetric history, indications for surgery, surgical techniques, intraoperative and postoperative complications, and outcomes were collected from medical records.

Results: Uterine atony was the most common indication for emergency hysterectomy (60%), and the majority of patients underwent total abdominal hysterectomy (88.9%). Intraoperative complications occurred in 25% of cases, with the most common being injury to the urinary tract (10%). Postoperative complications were seen in 35% of cases, with fever being the most common (20%). Advanced maternal age, multiparity, and prolonged surgery time were significantly associated with postoperative complications. The success rate of emergency hysterectomy was 95.6%, with an overall mortality rate of 4.4%.

Conclusion: Emergency hysterectomy is a life-saving procedure, but it is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Uterine atony is the most common indication, and total abdominal hysterectomy is the preferred surgical technique. Identification of risk factors for intraoperative and postoperative complications can help in the early recognition and management of complications.