THE MOUNT-SINAI CESAREAN-SECTION REDUCTION PROGRAM - AN UPDATE AFTER 6 YEARS

A six year follow-up evaluation of our original cesarean section reduction program is presented. While establishing obstetric practice guidelines was accomplished, two prerequisites remain critical: lowering cesarean utilization was to be accomplished without harm to mother or fetus, and a target rate was prospectively determined. The results after 6 years indicate that total cesarean rates of 10-12% can consistently be achieved without adverse outcome. Additionally, operative vaginal procedures were employed less that 3% of cases. Separate analysis of 580 breech deliveries failed to show an effect of route of delivery on mortality. This effort indicates that long-term reductions and cesarean utilization are possible with a comprehensive departmental program designed to accomplish achieving a target rate of 11%.