C A Cluver1, G J Hofmeyr. 1. From the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa; and Effective Care Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand/Fort Hare and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, East London Hospital complex, East London, South Africa.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: We describe a new method for delivery of intractable shoulder dystocia with posterior axilla sling traction. CASES: Two cases of shoulder dystocia after intrauterine death are described where routine methods of delivery were unsuccessful. In each case, a soft plastic suction catheter was folded in half over the operator's fingertip and digitally inserted around the posterior shoulder, under the axilla, and retrieved with the other hand to create a sling to which traction was applied. The posterior shoulder, followed by the anterior shoulder, was easily delivered. CONCLUSION: Posterior axilla sling traction may overcome intractable shoulder dystocia and avoid more traumatic procedures in fetal death.
BACKGROUND: We describe a new method for delivery of intractable shoulder dystocia with posterior axilla sling traction. CASES: Two cases of shoulder dystocia after intrauterine death are described where routine methods of delivery were unsuccessful. In each case, a soft plastic suction catheter was folded in half over the operator's fingertip and digitally inserted around the posterior shoulder, under the axilla, and retrieved with the other hand to create a sling to which traction was applied. The posterior shoulder, followed by the anterior shoulder, was easily delivered. CONCLUSION: Posterior axilla sling traction may overcome intractable shoulder dystocia and avoid more traumatic procedures in fetal death.