Pfannenstiel incision is used for?

Appeared in: BCCL kharkhanda Staff Nurse - 2015

Explanation

A Pfannenstiel incision is a low, transverse, suprapubic cut made just above the pubic hairline.
It is the most frequently selected type of incision for Caesarean sections because it provides adequate access to the uterus.
Key advantages include superior cosmetic results (the scar is easily hidden), lower rates of postoperative pain, and a reduced risk of developing an incisional hernia compared to vertical incisions.

Option B: Cholecystectomy, the removal of the gallbladder, is an upper abdominal surgery. A Pfannenstiel incision is a lower abdominal incision and would not provide access to the gallbladder.
Option C: Inguinal herniorrhaphy involves repairing a hernia in the groin. This procedure requires a specific inguinal incision made directly over the hernia.
Option D: Gastrectomy, the removal of the stomach, is a major upper abdominal surgery. A Pfannenstiel incision does not provide the necessary exposure for this procedure.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Surgical incisions and their applications as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses must be familiar with different incision types to provide appropriate postoperative care, including wound assessment for signs of infection or hematoma, managing pain, and educating the patient on activity restrictions.
With a Pfannenstiel incision, nurses should be aware of the potential for injury to the ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerves, which can cause numbness or pain in the suprapubic area, groin, or thigh.
Because of the layered dissection, a hematoma can form between the fascia and the rectus muscles, which may not be immediately visible but can cause significant pain and swelling.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key term in the question: 'Pfannenstiel incision'.
Recall the anatomical location and characteristics of this incision. It is a low, transverse (horizontal) incision in the suprapubic area (above the pubic bone).
Next, consider the anatomical location of the organs involved in each of the surgical options.
Caesarean section involves the uterus, which is in the pelvis and is easily accessed through a low transverse incision.
Cholecystectomy (gallbladder), Gastrectomy (stomach), are upper abdominal procedures.
Inguinal Herniorrhaphy is a groin procedure.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Obstetrics Williams p. 51-72

E6 Gynecology Williams p. 74-96

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Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.