Name four serious complications of destructive obstetric operations and explain why backup facilities are important.

The lecture lists trauma to the birth canal, postpartum haemorrhage, shock, puerperal sepsis, injury to adjacent organs or fistula, and iatrogenic uterine rupture. The possibility of these complications explains the requirement for backup operative facilities and organized preparation. The procedure should not be treated as a minor intervention simply because it enables vaginal birth.\n\n**Key takeaway:** Anticipate haemorrhage, trauma, infection, and organ injury, and ensure capacity to respond.\n\n**Glossary:** **Iatrogenic**: Caused by medical intervention; **fistula**: An abnormal connection between organs or tissues; **puerperal sepsis**: Serious infection occurring after childbirth.