Comparison between extraperitoneal and transperitoneal cesarean section: Retrospective case-control study.

Introduction:   The main advantage of extraperitoneal cesarean section (EXPCS) is not only less pain, faster recovery, and less potential for infection but also a possible lack of intraperitoneal adhesions.

Methods:   In a 3-year period from 2019 to 2022, 88 EXPCSs were performed. A comparison was made with 90 patients who underwent a standard transperitoneal cesarean section (TPCS). For both groups, the inclusion criterion was uterine inertia and prolonged labor as an indication for cesarean section. Only pregnant women from 37 to 42 weeks were included. After this, 51 patients remained in the EXPCS arm, and 49 remained in the TPCS arm.

Results:   No statistical difference was found in gestational weeks, newborn weight, Apgar score, erythrocyte (Er), hemoglobin (Hgb), and hematocrit (Htc) values and duration of operative time between the EXPCS and TPCS groups. Leukocytes, C-reactive protein (CRP) with fever higher than >38°C on the third postoperative day were found statistically significantly (p=0.005) higher in the TPCS group. The usage of tramadol + metamizole at 3, 6, and 9 hours after delivery and diclofenac at 6, 12, and 18 hours after surgery was statistically significantly (p<0.05) higher in the TPCS group. On the visual analog scale (VAS) 24 hours after surgery, a statistically significant difference was found (p = 0.001) between the two groups. In the small group of patients who underwent a TPCS section after an EXPCS, intraperitoneal adhesions were not found; in another group of patients who underwent a TPCS twice, adhesions were found in 12 patients; Fisher's exact test (p=0.04).

Conclusion:   The protective effect of EXPCS for infection could be proven in prolonged delivery. EXPCS could be a good solution in the fight against adhesions and infection in women who undergo second, third, or even fourth cesarean sections.