Background: Staples can be placed during the making of an incision, with the aim of decreasing blood loss from the cut edges.
Objectives: The objective of this review was to assess the effects of using a stapler with absorbable staples to extend the uterine incision at lower segment caesarean section.
Search strategy: We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group trials register.
Selection criteria: Randomised and quasi-randomised trials of extending the uterine incision using a stapler compared with extending the incision digitally or with scissors in women having a lower segment transverse incision caesarean section.
Data collection and analysis: Eligibility and trial quality were assessed.
Main results: Four trials involving 526 women were included. There was no difference in total operating time between the stapling technique and other techniques to extend the incision (weighted mean difference -1.17 minutes, 95% confidence interval -3.57 to 1.22). However stapling devices increased the time needed to deliver the baby (weighted mean difference 0.85 minutes, 95% confidence interval 0.48 to 1.23). Blood loss was lower with the use of staples (weighted mean difference -41.22 millilitres, 95% confidence interval -50.63 to -31.8). No significant differences between stapling and other techniques were detected for other perinatal morbidity outcomes.
Reviewer's conclusions: There is not enough evidence to justify the routine use of stapling devices to extend the uterine incision at lower segment caesarean section. There is a possibility that stapling could cause harm, by prolonging the time to deliver the baby.