Objectives: to analyze the medical and legal aspects in order to contribute to the study and standardization of this obstetrical surgery in Brazil. Methods: our study was based on 11 cases of cesarean section performed in the imminence of maternal death or just after death. These cases were attended at UNIFESP <FONT FACE=Symbol>-</FONT> EPM from 1988 to 1998. Results: there were 7 live births, five of them with a gestational age over 26 weeks. Most deaths occurred within the first 48 hours after admission. The predominant age range was the third decade. Conclusions: although postmortem cesarean section is indicated to save the fetus, it is rarely performed. The conditions for its indication involve knowledge of the technique as well as of the ethical and legal principles.
Postmortem cesarian section; Cesarean section; Maternal mortality
