This study compares two surgical techniques for closing the uterus after cesarean section: single-layer versus double-layer closure. The primary objective is to determine which technique results in better uterine scar healing, measured by residual myometrial thickness (RMT) and cesarean scar defect (niche) prevalence at 6 weeks and 6 months postoperatively.
BACKGROUND:
Cesarean section is one of the most common surgeries worldwide. After fetal delivery, the uterine incision must be closed by suture. Poor scar healing can lead to niche formation, abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain, dyspareunia, and complications in future pregnancies including uterine rupture and placenta accreta.
INTERVENTION:
Participants are randomized 1:1 to receive either:
* Single-layer closure: one continuous non-locking suture through full myometrial thickness
* Double-layer closure: two successive extra-mucosal non-locking sutures excluding the decidua
ASSESSMENTS:
Transvaginal ultrasound at 6 weeks and 6 months measures RMT and niche presence. Standardized symptom questionnaires assess pelvic pain, spotting, dysmenorrhea, and dyspareunia.
ELIGIBILITY:
Women aged 18-45 years undergoing primary cesarean section with singleton pregnancy at term (gestational age ≥ 37 weeks).
ENROLLMENT: 384 participants (192 per group)
SETTING: Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hedi Chaker University Hospital, Sfax, Tunisia
FOLLOW-UP: 6 months per participant in which the patients attend 2 follow-up visits:
First visit 6 weeks after surgery. Second visit at 6 months after surgery
.And have a pelvic ultrasound at each visit