The Joel-Cohen incision used for cesarean section differs from the Pfannenstiel incision in which KEY technical way?

• A It is a curved (convex) transverse incision at the level of the pubic hairline with sharp subcutaneous dissection
• B It is a straight transverse incision 3 cm below the anterior superior iliac spine line, with blunt stretching of subcutaneous tissue rather than sharp dissection ✓
• C It is a midline vertical incision allowing wider uterine access
• D It includes mandatory closure of the peritoneum in multiple layers

Explanation

The Joel-Cohen incision is a straight (not curved) transverse incision made higher (approximately 3 cm below the line joining the anterior superior iliac spines) than the Pfannenstiel, and fascia and muscle are opened by blunt digital stretching rather than sharp dissection — reducing operative time and blood loss. The Misgav Ladach cesarean technique (which incorporates the Joel-Cohen incision) also omits peritoneal closure. Pfannenstiel uses a curved incision at the lower level with sharp dissection of each layer.

Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.

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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.