Timing of Elective Caesarean Deliveries in England
Author Information
Author(s): Gurol-Urganci Ipek, Cromwell David A, Edozien Leroy C, Onwere Chidimma, Mahmood Tahir A, van der Meulen Jan H
Primary Institution: London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
Hypothesis
How has the timing of elective caesarean sections changed in response to NICE guidelines?
Conclusion
NHS trusts have improved the timing of elective caesarean sections, but significant variation remains between trusts.
Supporting Evidence
- The proportion of elective CS deliveries after 39 weeks increased from 39% in 2000 to 63% in 2009.
- There was a significant increase in elective CS after the NICE guidance was published.
- Variation in elective CS timing across NHS trusts remained substantial despite overall improvements.
Takeaway
This study looked at when elective caesarean sections are done in England and found that more are being done after 39 weeks, which is better for babies.
Methodology
The study analyzed elective caesarean deliveries from Hospital Episode Statistics data between 2000 and 2009, focusing on deliveries after 34 weeks gestation.
Potential Biases
Potential coding inaccuracies in the Hospital Episode Statistics could affect the results.
Limitations
The study could not control for other factors influencing practice changes during the study period.
Participant Demographics
Women with uncomplicated singleton pregnancies who had elective caesarean deliveries.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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