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What is a Pfannenstiel Incision?
The Pfannenstiel incision is a type of surgical incision made in the lower abdomen. It is used primarily in women during childbirth through the abdomen, also known as cesarean section. This incision can also be used to perform surgery on organs of the female reproductive system.
First reported in 1900 by German gynecologist Hermann Johannes Pfannenstiel, the Pfannenstiel incision was used for gynecological surgery on women. The incision was developed to avoid hernias or bulges in the abdominal wall that can occur after surgery. It is cosmetically pleasing as well, since the scar is hidden within folds of skin on the abdomen. Often referred to as the “bikini cut,” the Pfannenstiel incision is popular because it is done low on the abdomen and the patient can still comfortably wear a bikini without evidence of a scar.
The Pfannenstiel incision is a slightly curved horizontal incision about 0.8 to 1.1 inches (2-3 cm) above the pubic bone, also known as the symphysis pubis. This incision is usually about 4.7 to 5.9 inches (12-15 cm) in length. After making the incision, the surgeon peels away the layer of fat and tissue beneath the skin.
Rectus muscles of the abdomen must be pushed to each side in order to cut the peritoneum and enter the abdomen. After the surgical procedure is complete, the surgeon closes the muscles and fascia with sutures. The incision in the skin of the lower abdomen is usually closed with staples that are removed within three to four days.
If the patient needs major surgery involving the use of the Pfannenstiel incision, a general anesthetic would likely be used and the patient would be asleep. During a cesarean birth, a surgeon would probably use a regional anesthetic injected into either the cerebrospinal fluid in the lower spine or in the epidural area surrounding the spine. This would allow the patient to remain awake and assist in childbirth, while not experiencing any pain.
Patients will probably spend three to four days in the hospital after abdominal surgery. The incision may be painful, but the pain should diminish each day. Pain management should be discussed with the physician.
Recovery from the surgery and the Pfannenstiel incision could take a few weeks. Patients should watch for any swelling, infection or bleeding from the incision and report these side effects to the physician. The patient should arrange to have help at home and should avoid heavy lifting or anything that would put pressure on the incision.
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![Pfannenstiel incisions, also known as cesarean sections, are primarily used on women during childbirth.]()
By: Artem FurmanPfannenstiel incisions, also known as cesarean sections, are primarily used on women during childbirth. -
![Patients will probably spend three to four days in the hospital after an abdominal surgery featuring the Pfannenstiel incision.]()
By: michaeljungPatients will probably spend three to four days in the hospital after an abdominal surgery featuring the Pfannenstiel incision. -
![The Pfannenstiel incision is a surgical incision that's made in the lower abdomen.]()
By: WavebreakmediaMicroThe Pfannenstiel incision is a surgical incision that's made in the lower abdomen. -
![It is important to stay alert to the signs of infection around the Pfannenstiel incision.]()
By: michelaubryphotoIt is important to stay alert to the signs of infection around the Pfannenstiel incision. -
![Commonly used during C-sections, an epidural can numb parts of the body from pain.]()
By: chanawitCommonly used during C-sections, an epidural can numb parts of the body from pain. -
![A Pfannenstiel incision may be done to allow for surgery on the female reproductive system.]()
By: blueringmediaA Pfannenstiel incision may be done to allow for surgery on the female reproductive system.
Discussion Comments
@YogurtPark - Congrats on your pregnancy! I hope your baby is born happy and healthy.
I am a recent new mom, my son is 7 months old. When I was pregnant, I was afraid of having a C-section. My main concerns were harming myself or my baby, or not being able to ever again give birth vaginally after I had the C-section. My doctor told me that though it is not all that common, some women chose to deliver their next babies naturally.
I was not dilated enough, and I had already been in labor for over 15 hours when my doctor suggested that I have a Cesarean section. I could have risked harming myself or my baby if I had waited much longer to deliver.
The actual process was painless since the nurses doped me up pretty good. In the end, both me and my baby were fine, and my scar is actually not that bad.
Hopefully my story will ease your mind when it comes to having a C-section. Trust me, having one will not be the end of the world.
I had no idea that a cesarean section was actually called a Pfannenstiel incision, or that it was used for purposes other than delivering a baby. Thanks so much for writing this article. I am glad I was able to learn something when I stumbled across it.
I am pregnant, so I am anxious about giving birth. I am only about twenty one weeks into my pregnancy, so I still have a little ways to go. One of my fears is not being able, for whatever reason, to birth my child vaginally. I do not want to have a C-section because I am afraid of the scaring.
After reading this article, I now realize that scars are minimal. I have been told that before, but reading it again has made me believe it.
Are there any mothers out there who can share their story of giving birth through a cesarean section? I would love to hear them.
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