Defensive Medicine in the Management of Cesarean Delivery: A Survey among Italian Physicians

Background and Objectives: This study aims to contribute the definition of defensive medicine phenomenon between obstetricians gynecologists, as well possible effects on frequency deliveries performed by cesarean sections (CS). Materials Methods: a digital questionnaire was administered through mail-list including 600 gynecological specialists (of these 168 doctors completed test), both in public private settings. It made twenty multiple choice questions, concerning their awareness about practice planning execution CS. All involved received clear complete information purpose this organizations that answers. Analyses variance regression were describe differences groups estimate relationships variables. The value p < 0.5 considered statistically relevant. Results: our analysis revealed most respondents are confident with characteristics. survey confirmed gynecologists fear legal actions promoted patients therefore modulate choices implementing professional behaviors so-called “defensive medicine”. relates greater number medical liability judgements, which more often concern omission or delayed section, rather than unskillful surgical procedures. Conclusions: there few data support relation high rate CS medicine. Numerous scientific studies associated is constantly growing all areas, especially high-risk specialties such obstetrics gynecology. Our highlights physicians’ adopting clinical practice, affecting type delivery be performed.