Daniel A Del Portal1, Amanda E Horn1, Gary M Vilke2, Theodore C Chan2, Jacob W Ufberg1. 1. Department of Emergency Medicine, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 2. Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California, San Diego Medical Center, San Diego, California.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Precipitous obstetric deliveries can occur outside of the labor and delivery suite, often in the emergency department (ED). Shoulder dystocia is an obstetric emergency with significant risk of adverse outcome. OBJECTIVE: To review multiple techniques for managing a shoulder dystocia in the ED. DISCUSSION: We review various techniques and approaches for achieving delivery in the setting of shoulder dystocia. These include common maneuvers, controversial interventions, and interventions of last resort. CONCLUSIONS: Emergency physicians should be familiar with multiple techniques for managing a shoulder dystocia to reduce the chances of fetal and maternal morbidity and mortality.
BACKGROUND: Precipitous obstetric deliveries can occur outside of the labor and delivery suite, often in the emergency department (ED). Shoulder dystocia is an obstetric emergency with significant risk of adverse outcome. OBJECTIVE: To review multiple techniques for managing a shoulder dystocia in the ED. DISCUSSION: We review various techniques and approaches for achieving delivery in the setting of shoulder dystocia. These include common maneuvers, controversial interventions, and interventions of last resort. CONCLUSIONS: Emergency physicians should be familiar with multiple techniques for managing a shoulder dystocia to reduce the chances of fetal and maternal morbidity and mortality.