Cesarean 123 Trial: Randomized Trial Comparing Single, Double and Triple Layer Uterine Closures During Cesarean Delivery

Cesarean 123 Trial: Prospective Randomized Trial Comparing Single, Double and Triple Layer Uterine Closures During Cesarean Delivery

The goal of this clinical trial is to compare post-operative uterine scar thickness in people who have had the uterus closed during cesarean sections by one of three different methods. The main questions it aims to answer are:

• Residual myometrial thickness at the scar site assessed by MRI performed 4 months after the procedure
• Myometrial niche formation assessed by MRI performed 4 months after the procedure
• Scar healing ratio (HR) difference as defined by HR= residual myometrial thickness/total myometrial thickness
• Post-operative change in hemoglobin
• Time required for hysterotomy closure
• The number of extra sutures required to achieve surgeon-acceptable hemostasis

Participants undergoing scheduled cesarean sections will be randomized to one of three different uterine closure methods. The methods are:

1. Single layer closure using the following technique: Closure of the myometrium and serosa with one barbed suture using a running unlocked technique. The endometrium should be excluded.
2. Double layer closure using the following technique: Closure of the full thickness of the myometrium with one smooth suture using a running locked technique. The endometrium should be excluded. Followed by imbrication of the second layer with one smooth suture using a running unlocked technique.
3. Triple layer closure of Endometrium, Myometrium and Serosa (EMS) using one of the the following two techniques: Closure of the endometrium and 2-4 mm of internal myometrium with one barbed suture using a running unlocked technique followed by closure of the remaining myometrium and serosa with one barbed suture using a running unlocked technique. Or, Closure of the endometrium and 2-4 mm of internal myometrium with one barbed suture on using a running unlocked technique followed by closure of the remaining myometrium with one barbed suture a running unlocked technique followed by closure of the serosa with one barbed suture using a running unlocked technique.

Four months after the surgery, participants will have a MRI of the pelvis to assess the scar on the uterus.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18 years or older
• Singleton gestation
• Nonurgent primary or secondary cesarean delivery at greater than 35w6d
• Body Mass Index (BMI) <35 kg/m^2

Exclusion Criteria:

• More than 1 prior cesarean delivery
• Multiple gestation
• Known coagulation disorder or current use of anti-coagulants
• Mullerian anomalies
• Placenta previa