Abstract
BACKGROUND: Decision to delivery interval describes the period of time between a decision and the baby's delivery. Particularly in emergency situations, cesarean sections (CS) have the potential to significantly lower maternal and perinatal mortality by up to 72%.The purpose of this review was to systematically identify and synthesize existing evidence to understand the magnitude of decision to delivery interval for emergency cesarean section and associated factors in Africa. METHODS: A comprehensive search was conducted using PubMed, the Cochrane library, CINAHL, SciencDirect, and other pertinent sites for studies published in English up until July 12, 2024. A critical appraisal was conducted on the listed studies utilizing the Joanna Briggs Institute format. DerSimonian & Liard's random effects model was used in a meta-analysis carried out in STATA 11 software. The Cochran Q test was used to determine whether statistical heterogeneity existed, and the I(2) statistics were used to quantify the degree of heterogeneity among the studies. A pooled estimate of the outcome variable's magnitude was computed. To calculate effect sizes, pooled odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were used. RESULT: The pooled estimate of decision-to-delivery interval for emergency caesarean sections in Africa within 30 min was 10.23% (95% CI: 8.34%, 12.12%). Time taken to collect materials (AOR,7.2;95%CI:3.2,16.4),status of surgeon (AOR,3.57;95% CI:1.12,11.43),types of anesthesia (AOR,3.23;95%CI:1.07,9.74),and transfer time (AOR,4.05;95%CI:1.87,8.74) were significantly associated with decision to delivery interval for emergency cesarean section ≤ 30 min. CONCLUSION: In Africa, the goal of delivering an emergency cesarean section within the advised time frame of within thirty minutes was not achieved. Material collection time, anesthetic type, client transfer time, and surgeon status were significant factors. Healthcare institutions and professionals must always be prepared to offer emergency care and must stock the hospital with all required supplies, reduce the amount of time needed for the transfer. TRIAL REGISTRATION: CRD42024561310.