TITLE:
Computed Tomography Pelvimetry at the Yaoundé Central Hospital from 2018 to 2020: Practices and Obstetrical Outcome
AUTHORS:
Mbede Maggy, Bodo Ntede Georges Dany, Seme Engoumou Ambroise Merci, Essiben Félix, Dohbit Julius Sama, Ongolo Zogo Pierre
KEYWORDS:
CT Pelvimetry, Magnin Index, Obstetric Outcomes, Childbirth Mode, Caesarean Section
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Radiology,
Vol.15 No.3,
September
28,
2025
ABSTRACT: Objective: Indications for computed tomography (CT) pelvimetry and its ability to predict obstetric outcomes remain controversial. The increasing use of this examination in the African context and the paucity of studies conducted in Cameroon and sub-Saharan countries motivated this study. Our objective was to assess CT pelvimetry practices at the Yaoundé Central Hospital and evaluate obstetrical outcomes. Method: We conducted a cross-sectional study with retrospective and prospective data collection in the Radiology Department of the Yaoundé Central Hospital from January 2018 to April 2020. All patients who underwent CT pelvimetry with an available report were included. Data collected included socio-demographic characteristics, indications, radiation doses, pelvic measurements, and delivery outcomes. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, Fisher’s exact test, and binary logistic regression. Results: Of 267 women identified, 252 had CT pelvimetry reports, and 162 were followed until delivery. Mean maternal age was 28 ± 4 years, and mean height was 1.61 ± 0.06 m. The most frequent indication was scarred uterus (50.4%). Median dose-length product (DLP) was 34 mGy.cm (IQR: 28 - 41). Borderline pelvis accounted for 52% of cases, contracted pelvis 18.3%, and normal pelvis 29.8%. Caesarean section rate was 61.9%, higher in women with contracted pelvis (100%) and borderline pelvis (66.2%) than in those with normal pelvis (30.6%). Maternal height Conclusion: CT pelvimetry was mainly indicated for scarred uterus and clinical pelvic stricture. Irradiation levels were within recommendations limits. The high proportion of borderline and contracted pelvis (70.3%) was associated with increased caesarean section rates. Maternal short stature was predictive of caesarean delivery. These results highlight the need for standardized criteria in interpreting CT pelvimetry in obstetric management.