Publication:

The ten group Robson classification: a retrospective study to identify strategies to optimise caesarean section rates

Background Caesarean section rates have been increasing worldwide. For proper assessment, the ten group Robson classification is recommended by WHO for assessing CS rates. We are analyzing the caesarean section rates by classifying the caesarean sections using modified Robson’s ten group classification. Objective of the current study was to estimate caesarean section rates in our hospital and to classify caesarean section using modified Robson’s ten group classification system.

Methods Current retrospective study was conducted in the department of obstetrics and gynaecology in a tertiary care hospital. The medical records were reviewed for a period of 12 months.

Results Total number of deliveries during the study period was 315. The total numbers of caesarean section were 159 and total vaginal deliveries were 156. The caesarean section rate was 50.47%. The main contributors to overall caesarean section rate were group 5 (18.10%), group 2 (13.96%) and group 1 (5.71%). Women with one previous LSCS contributed majorly to the caesarean section rate. Higher CS rate was also seen in both group 2A (69.40%) and group 4A (47.30%) which had underwent induction of labour. More inclination towards trial of labour following CS for women with previous one LSCS can lower CS rates.

Conclusions Modified Robson’s classification is easily implementable and an effective tool for ongoing surveillance. The results can be compared between Institutions, states and countries. Having implemented the Robson classification and identified groups which contributed the most to the overall CS rate, interventions to reduce the same has to be our prime objective.