Complications of cesarean delivery in the massively obese parturient

Objective

The objective of the study was to determine predictors of cesarean delivery morbidity associated with massive obesity.

Study Design

This was an institutional review board–approved retrospective study of massively obese women (body mass index, ≥50 kg/m²) undergoing cesarean delivery. Bivariable and multivariable analyses were used to assess the strength of association between wound complication and various predictors.

Results

Fifty-eight of 194 patients (30%) had a wound complication. Most (90%) were wound disruptions, and 86% were diagnosed after hospital discharge (median postoperative day, 8.5; interquartile range, 6–12). Subcutaneous drains and smoking, but not labor or ruptured membranes, were independently associated with wound complication after controlling for various confounders. Vertical abdominal incisions were associated with increased operative time, blood loss, and vertical hysterotomy.

Conclusion

Women with a body mass index ≥50 kg/m² have a much greater risk for cesarean wound complications than previously reported. Avoidance of subcutaneous drains and increased use of transverse abdominal wall incisions should be considered in massively obese parturients to reduce operative morbidity.

Key words: cesarean delivery, obesity, superobesity, wound complication, wound infection