Why Don’t Cesarean Delivery Surgeons Suture the Rectus Abdominis Muscle?
Apr 28, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Zhe
Introduction
Whether rectus abdominis muscle repair is required during cesarean delivery depends on the specific surgical circumstances. Differences between performing versus omitting rectus abdominis repair include wound infection rates, post-healing scar appearance, and wound healing speed. Diastasis recti caused by pregnancy does not require surgical repair; however, rectus abdominis injury resulting from trauma or cesarean delivery typically necessitates repair.
Whether rectus abdominis muscle repair is required during cesarean delivery depends on the specific surgical circumstances. Details are as follows:
Differences between rectus abdominis repair and non-repair include wound infection rates, degree of scarring after healing, and wound healing speed.
Rectus diastasis caused by pregnancy generally does not require surgical repair. After cesarean delivery, rectus abdominis realignment can be achieved through exercise (e.g., yoga), manual reduction, or instrument-assisted reduction. Non-repaired wounds are more prone to scar formation during healing and carry a higher risk of bacterial wound infection. Healing time for non-repaired wounds tends to be longer.
Rectus abdominis repair promotes wound healing and facilitates earlier recovery—particularly in cases of rectus abdominis injury resulting from trauma or cesarean delivery, where repair is typically indicated. Repaired wounds heal more rapidly. Suturing also minimizes exposure of the wound to external bacteria, thereby reducing infection risk and limiting scar formation.
After cesarean delivery, maintain local wound cleanliness, change dressings regularly, and engage in appropriate physical activity.
