Obesity: Cesarean Health by Incision Placement

Introduction: Obesity affects approximately 1/3rd of all reproductive-aged women and is associated with increased maternal morbidity during and after cesarean section. The optimal surgical approach has not been well elucidated for obese individuals. Materials and Methods: This is a randomized controlled trial comparing a Pfannenstiel incision placed below the pannus (should a pannus exist) with a Cohen incision placed above the pannus (should a pannus exist); allocation is 1:1 with stratification for pre-gestational diabetes and presence of pannus. The study will be assessed by intention-to-treat analysis looking composite maternal morbidity (wound complications within 6 weeks, endometritis, postpartum hemorrhage) as the primary outcome with secondary outcomes including wound complications, operative time, estimated blood loss, pain management, and patient and surgeon satisfaction. Significant confounders will be assessed and adjusted in the multiple regression analysis accordingly. Results: The investigators propose the Cohen cesarean incision will result in statistically less maternal morbidity from cesarean section than the Pfannenstiel incision. Comment: The benefits of a Cohen incision have been encouraged in non-obese pregnant women; the investigators propose that they be considered in obese women as well.