Rationalization of approaches to managing episiotomy wounds

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15574/HW.2022.163.14

Keywords:

episiotomy, vaginal delivery, wound healing, hemostasis, inflammation, inflammatory cytokines, IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α, pathogens

Abstract

Episiotomy is a surgical manipulation that has become one of the most frequently performed surgical procedures in the world. According to World Health Organization recommendations, the overall frequency of episiotomy use should not exceed 10% of vaginal deliveries. However, in some developed countries, there are significant discrepancies in clinical experience with the use of episiotomies, with rates ranging from 5.2% (USA), 9.7% (Sweden) to 100% (Taiwan), including both primiparous and multiparous women.

Purpose - to evaluate global data on the appropriateness of routine episiotomy use, the importance of studying wound healing and methods of managing episiotomy wounds.

Considering that episiotomy continues to be used by physicians worldwide, there is a need for more detailed assessment of the appropriateness of performing episiotomy, wound healing, search for new approaches to managing episiotomy wounds, and prevention of complications.

Conclusions. The results of numerous studies indicate the importance of more detailed study of the issue of episiotomy wound repair and methods of treatment during the postpartum period. However, given the significant achievements reflected in publications on the study of episiotomy management, there is a need to search for an optimal approach to management, predicting success and risk factors affecting episiotomy wound healing.

No conflict of interests was declared by the authors.

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Published

2022-12-28