Review of maternal deaths in two health regions of Togo: dysfunctions and recommendations

Abstract

Introduction: Maternal mortality is a public health problem. The objective of our study was to determine the frequency of maternal death reviews, the dysfunctions noted and the
recommendations resulting from the maternal deaths reviewed. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional descriptive, multicenter study, from January 1, 2018 to June 30, 2022, relating to the review of maternal deaths in three reference hospitals in two health regions of Togo (Grand Lomé and Maritime) . Any maternal death that occurred in one of these hospitals during the study period was included in this survey. The data collected using a collection sheet was analyzed using Epi Info version 7 software. Results: During the study period, the maternal mortality ratio in the three hospitals was 722.3 per 100,000 live
births. Only 12.2% of maternal deaths were reviewed in hospitals. The patients were young with an average age of 29.9 years. 235 malfunctions were noted, and 234 recommendations were made to resolve the identified dysfunctions. Late referral was the most represented dysfunction. 14.1% Only 71 recommendations were implemented, or 30.3%. Conclusion: the maternal mortality ratio still remains high in our country with a low frequency of maternal death reviews. Implementation of recommendations remains weak. Strong preventive measures deserve to be taken at all levels in order to implement these recommendations for the reduction of maternal mortality.: