Resuscitative hysterotomy

A resuscitative hysterotomy, also referred to as a perimortem Caesarean section (PMCS) or perimortem Caesarean delivery (PMCD), is a hysterotomy performed to resuscitate a woman in middle to late pregnancy who has entered cardiac arrest. Combined with a laparotomy, the procedure results in a Caesarean section that removes the aortocaval compression caused by the pregnant uterus, thereby improving the mother's chances of return of spontaneous circulation, and potentially also delivering a viable neonate.