Obstetricians are likely to elect for cesarean section in women with retained pelvic implants: a radiographic survey study

Purpose Women with a history of pelvic fracture undergo cesarean section (CS) at a higher rate than the general population. The purpose of our study is to query obstetricians on their preferences.Methods An electronic survey consisting of 22 radiographs of patients who underwent pelvic fixation was sent to obstetricians at 3 academic medical centers. For each radiograph, a hypothetical scenario was given, and the respondents were asked if they would elect for a vaginal delivery or CS.Results We collected 58 responses. The overall CS rate was 59%. Respondents were significantly more likely to elect for CS with trans-symphyseal fixation or sacroiliac fixation, independently (p < 0.001).Discussion Obstetricians are likely to elect for elective CS in the presence of pelvic implants especially in patients with trans-symphyseal and sacroiliac fixation. Based on there is an opportunity for collaboration between orthopedic trauma surgeons and obstetricians.