[Indications and prognosis of cesarean sections at the Dakar University Hospital Center].

From 1st January 1992 to 30 June 1994, 8489 delivered at the Dakar University Hospital. Among them, there were 953 cesarean sections, i.e. 11.2%. Epidemiological analysis revealed that mean parity was 2 for a mean age of 26 years. 22% of the women had a clinically perceptible pelvic problem. The indications for cesarean section were divided into 3 groups: mandatory operations (feto-pelvic disproportion, haemorrhagic placenta praevia, dystocia): 41.4%; prudent operations (long-awaited infant, fetal suffering, breech presentation, cicatricial uterus): 50%; and necessary operations (maternal disease, especially hypertension): 8.6%. There was a high postoperative mortality (1.4%) and major morbidity, especially infection (10%). Neonatal prognosis was also poor with a 14% early neonatal mortality. These findings reflect the major problems facing obstetricians in Senegal and Subsaharian Africa. Improved prognosis necessarily will involve better organization of our health systems allowing easier access to life-saving cesarean section for our rural populations.