Women's experiences of the Odon Device to assist vaginal birth and participation in intrapartum research: a qualitative study in a maternity unit in the Southwest of England

OBJECTIVE

To investigate women's experiences of having a birth assisted by the Odon Device (an innovative device for assisted vaginal birth) and participation in intrapartum research.

DESIGN

Qualitative semistructured interviews and observations undertaken in the context of case study work embedded in the ASSIST feasibility study.

SETTING

A tertiary referral National Health Service (NHS) maternity unit in the Southwest of England, between 8 October 2018 and 26 January 2019.

PARTICIPANTS

Eight women, four operators and 11 midwives participated with eight observations of the assisted vaginal birth, eight interviews with women in the postnatal period, 39 interviews/reflections with operators and 19 interviews with midwives. Women in the case study research were recruited from participants in the main ASSIST Study.

INTERVENTION

The Odon Device, an innovative device for assisted vaginal birth.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine case studies were undertaken. Triangulation of data sources (participant observation, interviews with women, operators and midwives) enabled the exploration of women's experiences of the Odon Device and recruitment in the intrapartum trial. Experiences were overwhelmingly positive. Women were motivated to take part by a wish for a kinder birth, and because they perceived both the recruitment and research processes (including observation) to be highly acceptable, regardless of whether the Odon-assisted birth was successful or not.

CONCLUSIONS

Interviews and observations from multiple stakeholders enabled insight into women's experiences of an innovative device for assisted vaginal birth. Applying these qualitative methods more broadly may illuminate perspectives of key stakeholders in future intrapartum intervention research and beyond.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ISRCTN10203171; ASSIST Study registration; https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN10203171.

The ASSIST Study - The BD Odon Device for assisted vaginal birth: a safety and feasibility study

BACKGROUND

Assisted vaginal birth is a vital health intervention that can result in better outcomes for mothers and their babies when complications arise in the second stage of labour. Unfortunately, instruments for assisted vaginal birth (forceps and ventouse) are often not utilised in settings where there is most clinical need, resulting in maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality which could have been prevented. The BD Odon Device is a new device for assisted vaginal birth that may be able to address this unmet need. However, before dissemination, the device requires evaluation in robust clinical trials. A feasibility study to investigate the clinical impact, safety, and acceptability of the BD Odon Device for assisted vaginal birth is therefore planned. This will provide further information on acceptability, recruitment, and the outcome data required to design a future randomised controlled trial of the BD Odon Device versus Kiwi ventouse.

METHODS

Forty women who require an assisted vaginal birth for a recognised clinical indication will have the birth assisted with the BD Odon Device. The primary outcome is successful vaginal birth completed with the BD Odon Device. Secondary clinical outcomes include maternal and neonatal outcomes, and maternal and practitioner satisfaction. Safety data will be reviewed following every birth.

DISCUSSION

A future randomised controlled trial of the BD Odon Device versus the current standard instrument (the Kiwi ventouse) is planned. The findings of the ASSIST Study will inform the randomised controlled trial design.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ISRCTN, ISRCTN10203171 . Prospectively registered on 27 July 2018.

Kielland's forceps: does it increase the risk of anal sphincter injuries? An observational study

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Rotational instrumental deliveries are thought to carry additional risks compared with non-rotational instrumental deliveries, including trauma to maternal tissues, and require specific expertise and training. We conducted a retrospective study to investigate the association between the type of forceps delivery and maternal perineal trauma, and in particular to investigate if Kielland's rotational forceps delivery increases obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS).

METHODS

This is a retrospective observational study of 1,515 women who attended a tertiary maternity unit over a period of 5 years and had operative vaginal deliveries primarily or completed by forceps. Data were obtained through the hospital's maternity reporting system. The severity of maternal perineal trauma, particularly third and fourth-degree tears in relation to the type of forceps delivery was explored. Multinomial logistic regression models were used to estimate the crude and the adjusted relative risks (RR) of sustaining third-degree tears compared with other types of vaginal tears. Univariate analyses explored the crude associations between relative risks and age, ethnicity, birth weight, type of instrumental delivery and operator's experience. A multivariate multinomial logistic regression model estimated the adjusted relative risks and included all the previous variables as independent covariates.

RESULTS

Of the 1,492 women included in the study, 150 women (77 %) had sustained category 1 tears, 63 women (4 %) had sustained category 2 tears and 279 women (19 %) had sustained third-degree tears. There was no statistically significant association between the severity of maternal perineal trauma and the type of forceps delivery (failed ventouse vs Kielland's forceps RR 1.52, p = 0.159 CI 0.84-2.72, Wrigleys vs Kielland's RR 0.59, p = 0.249, CI 0.24-1.43; Andersons vs Kielland's RR 1.16, p = 0.603, CI 0.65-2.05) after adjusting for age, birth weight, BMI, ethnicity and operator experience (full list of covariates not included).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of third- and fourth-degree tears following rotational Kielland's forceps delivery and other non-rotational forceps deliveries is comparable.

The place of Kielland's forceps in reducing caesarean section rates

The rise in births by caesarean section (CS) is a global issue. A skilled obstetrician with a midwife knowledgeable in Kielland's forceps (KF) is often able to achieve a successful rotational vaginal birth when safe. The KF, however, has risks--and outcomes must be audited. In this article we present the results of a literature review and retrospective audit, evaluate maternal and neonatal morbidity associated with KF in our unit and compliance with national standards. Our conclusion is that our unit complies with national standards and offers the woman an alternative to CS when it is safe to do so. Adverse outcomes with KF are not different from other modes of operative birth.

Management of fetal malposition in the second stage of labor: a propensity score analysis

OBJECTIVE

We sought to determine the factors associated with selection of rotational instrumental vs cesarean delivery to manage persistent fetal malposition, and to assess differences in adverse neonatal and maternal outcomes following delivery by rotational instruments vs cesarean delivery.

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted a retrospective cohort study over a 5-year period in a tertiary United Kingdom obstetrics center. In all, 868 women with vertex-presenting, single, liveborn infants at term with persistent malposition in the second stage of labor were included. Propensity score stratification was used to control for selection bias: the possibility that obstetricians may systematically select more difficult cases for cesarean delivery. Linear and logistic regression models were used to compare maternal and neonatal outcomes for delivery by rotational forceps or ventouse vs cesarean delivery, adjusting for propensity scores.

RESULTS

Increased likelihood of rotational instrumental delivery was associated with lower maternal age (odds ratio [OR], 0.95; P < .01), lower body mass index (OR, 0.94; P < .001), lower birthweight (OR, 0.95; P < .01), no evidence of fetal compromise at the time of delivery (OR, 0.31; P < .001), delivery during the daytime (OR, 1.45; P < .05), and delivery by a more experienced obstetrician (OR, 7.21; P < .001). Following propensity score stratification, there was no difference by delivery method in the rates of delayed neonatal respiration, reported critical incidents, or low fetal arterial pH. Maternal blood loss was higher in the cesarean group (295.8 ± 48 mL, P < .001).

CONCLUSION

Rotational instrumental delivery is often regarded as unsafe. However, we find that neonatal outcomes are no worse once selection bias is accounted for, and that the likelihood of severe obstetric hemorrhage is reduced. More widespread training of obstetricians in rotational instrumental delivery should be considered, particularly in light of rising cesarean delivery rates.

Obstetric anal sphincter injury risk reduction: a retrospective observational analysis

OBJECTIVE

To identify the risks of sustaining obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI) during childbirth.

METHODS

Data were analysed from 12,612 vaginal deliveries recorded at Northwick Park District General Hospital, London, from 1 January 2006 to 30 November 2009.

RESULTS

A total of 85.6% were spontaneous deliveries and 14.2% were instrument deliveries. The majority (64.5%) sustained some form of perineal damage, 3.7% being OASI. Logistic regression analyses revealed the risk factors for OASI to be Asian ethnicity [odds ratio (OR) 4.798, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.998-7.679], a maternal age of >40 years (OR 2.722, 95% CI 1.315-5.636), higher foetal birth weight (>4500 g; OR 6.228, 95% CI 2.695-14.392), lower parity (para 0; OR 16.803, 95% CI 7.697-36.685), and instrumental delivery. Forceps delivery posed the greatest risk (OR 8.4, 95% CI 5.822-12.151). Not having an episiotomy increased the risk of OASI by five times compared with having one.

CONCLUSIONS

Risk factors for OASI include maternal age >40 years, higher foetal birth weight, lower parity, instrumental delivery, and Asian ethnicity. Mediolateral episiotomy appears to reduce the risk of OASI. Specific variables have been identified for incorporation into a risk-reduction strategy that could be introduced antenatally to evaluate and assess OASI risk.

Feasibility and safety study of a new device (Odón device) for assisted vaginal deliveries: study protocol

BACKGROUND

Intrapartum complications are responsible for approximately half of all maternal deaths, and two million stillbirth and neonatal deaths per year. Prolonged second stage of labour is associated with potentially fatal maternal complications such as haemorrhage and infection and it is a major cause of stillbirth and newborn morbidity and mortality. Currently, the three main options for managing prolonged second stage of labour are forceps, vacuum extractor and caesarean section. All three clinical practices require relatively expensive equipment (e.g., a surgical theatre for caesarean section) and/or highly trained staff which are often not available in low resource settings. The specific aim of the proposed study is to test the safety and feasibility of a new device (Odón device) to effectively deliver the fetus during prolonged second stage of labour. The Odón device is a low-cost technological innovation to facilitate operative vaginal delivery and designed to minimize trauma to the mother and baby. These features combined make it a potentially revolutionary development in obstetrics, particularly for improving intrapartum care and reducing maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality in low resource settings.

METHODS/DESIGN

This will be a hospital-based, multicenter prospective phase 1 cohort study with no control group. Delivery with the Odón device will be attempted under normal labour and non-emergency conditions on all the women enrolled in the study. One-hundred and thirty pregnant women will be recruited in tertiary care facilities in Argentina. Safety will be assessed by examining maternal and infant outcomes until discharge. Feasibility will be evaluated by observing successful expulsion of the fetal head after one-time application of the device under standardized conditions (full cervical dilation, anterior presentation, +2 station, normal fetal heart rate).

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR). Identifier: ACTRN12613000141741.

[Indications for vaginal delivery with forceps application]

The aim of the study was to establish indications for operative vaginal delivery by extraction of the fetus with forceps in modern obstetrics.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This is a retro- and prospective study which includes 672 forceps deliveries in the period of 1994-2008 in Maternity hospital Sofia. Simpson and Kielland were used for extractions subject to appropriate indications and conditions, regardless of the gestational week of pregnancy.

RESULTS

The most frequent indication for forceps application is fetal asphyxia (78.1%) and considering the frequency for 15 years it is the permanent, leading indication for forceps in modern obstetrics. Arrest of the head in the same plane of the pelvis was the indication in 23.6% of the cases it varies and is rarely primary through the 15 year period. Ineffective uterine contractions and/or pushes (16.7%) tends to decrease its frequency. Avoiding maternal efforts in the second stage of labor (8.5%) and in 50% of the cases was indicated for women with cardiovascular diseases. Malpositions (7.7%) increases through the years probably secondary to epidural analgesia. Indication preeclampsia-eclampsia is described in 1.3% of cases, followed by genital bleeding by 1.9% and prolapse of the umbilical cord by 0.6% and they are more incidentally reasons for application of forceps.

CONCLUSION

Asphyxia of the fetus is the most common and a leading indication for extraction of the fetus with forceps. Ineffective uterine contractions and the arrest of the head in the same plane of the pelvis are consistent in their occurrence and lead to prolonged labor. In certain critical conditions (genital bleeding, prolapse of the umbilical cord and eclampsia) extraction of the fetus with forceps remains the only way for fast vaginal delivery.

[Frequency and characteristics for forceps delivery]

AIM

To establish the incidence of vaginal operative deliveries by extraction of the fetus with forceps and the degree of prematurity of newborns in which it is applied, to specify the type of forceps which is imposed.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included 672 births, completed by extraction of the fetus with forceps in the period 1994-2008 year in University hospital "Maichin dom" Sofia. The total number of births was 47,130, of which 32,924 have become per vias naturalis. Age of birth was from 13 to 42 years. The study was done prospectively and retrospectively.

RESULTS

The incidence of forceps extraction of the total number of births for the period is 1.43%, as seen following the trend - in the first years of the period 1994 - 1995 is more than 2% of total births, in the period 1996 to 2003 years and then fluctuated between 1 and 2%, and after 2004 has decreased below 1%. There could be noticed slight and gradual reduction in the incidence of operative vaginal delivery by forceps. The general incidence of forceps extraction compared to vaginal births was 2.04% for the entire period, at the beginning is 3.5% and then fell between 2.5 and 2% for the period 1995 to 2003 years, then in 2004 was between 1 and 2%. In 94.8% of cases forceps was applied to term fetuses and 5.2% of cases in preterm fetuses (respectively 3.78% in premature fetuses 1-st degree, 1.10 percent premature fetuses II-nd degree and 0.31% in premature fetuses III-grade). In 74.65% of the cases was outlet forceps and 25.35% was low forceps.

CONCLUSIONS

Forceps remains an irreplaceable tool for operative vaginal birth, but there is a tendency to reduce its use. In preterm fetuses forceps is the only method for vaginal operative delivery. Today only outlet and low forceps have their role in modern obstetrics, but there is a trend to reduce the incidence of the rotational forceps in comparison to increase of the use of outlet forceps.

Operative vaginal delivery and the use of episiotomy—A survey of practice in the United Kingdom and Ireland

OBJECTIVE

To establish the views and current practice of obstetricians with regard to operative vaginal delivery and the use of episiotomy.

STUDY DESIGN

A national survey of consultant obstetricians and specialist registrars practising in the United Kingdom and Ireland registered with the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), London. A postal questionnaire was sent to all obstetricians with two subsequent reminders to non-responders. The choice of procedure for specific circumstances, instrument preference, use of episiotomy and views on the relationship between episiotomy use and anal sphincter tears at operative vaginal delivery were explored.

RESULTS

The response rate was 80.4%. Instrument preference varied according to the fetal position and station and the grade of operator. Vacuum and forceps were both used for mid-cavity non-rotational deliveries (64% and 56% reported frequent use respectively). Rotational vacuum was preferred for a mid-cavity mal-position (69%) followed by equal numbers using rotational forceps or manual rotation and forceps (34% and 36%, respectively). Inexperienced operators were more likely to proceed directly to caesarean section (35%). A restrictive approach to use of episiotomy was preferred for vacuum delivery (72%) and a routine approach for forceps (73%). Obstetricians varied greatly in their perception of the relationship between episiotomy use and anal sphincter tears at operative vaginal delivery.

CONCLUSION

There is wide variation in the use of episiotomy at operative vaginal delivery with uncertainty about its role in preventing anal sphincter tears. A randomised controlled trial would address this important aspect of obstetric care.

[Eye disease and mode of delivery]

Many ophthalmologists and obstetricians recommend either an assisted vaginal delivery with forceps or vacuum extraction or a Caesarean section in cases of pre-existing eye diseases such as severe myopia, retinal detachment, diabetic retinopathy, or glaucoma. These recommendations, however, are not evidence-based. None of the published trials have reported any retinal changes after vaginal delivery. In general, eye disease is not an indication for an instrumental or operative delivery provided that regular eye examinations (once each trimester) have been performed.

Shoulder dystocia related fetal neurological injuries: the predisposing roles of forceps and ventouse extractions

On the basis of 333 documented cases of permanent perinatal neurological damage, associated with arrest of the shoulders at birth, the authors conducted a retrospective study in order to evaluate the predisposing role, if any, of the utilization of extraction instruments. The investigation revealed that 35% of all injuries occurred in neonates delivered by forceps, ventouse or sequential ventouse-forceps procedures. This frequency was several-fold higher than the prevailing instrument use in the practices of American obstetricians during the same years. A high rate of forceps and ventouse extractions was demonstrable in all birth weight categories. Average weight and moderately large for gestational age fetuses underwent instrumental extractions more often than grossly macrosomic ones. This circumstance indicates that forceps and ventouse are independent risk factors, unrelated to fetal size. Their use entailed central nervous system injuries significantly more often than did spontaneous deliveries. The findings suggest that extraction procedures may be as important as macrosomia among the factors that lead to neurological damage in the child in connection with shoulder dystocia. Because they augment the intrinsic dangers of excessive fetal size exponentially, the authors consider their use in case of > or =4,000 g estimated fetal weight inadvisable. Sequential forceps-ventouse utilization further doubles the risks and is, therefore, to be avoided in all circumstances.

Design of a New Instrumented Forceps: Application to Safe Obstetrical Forceps Blade Placement

Today, medical simulators are increasingly gaining appeal in clinical settings. In obstetrics childbirth simulators provide a training and research tool for comparing various techniques that use obstetrical instruments or validating new methods. Especially in the case of difficult deliveries, the use of obstetrical instruments-such as forceps, spatulas, and vacuum extractors-has become essential. However, such instruments increase the risk of injury to both the mother and fetus. Only clinical experience acquired in the delivery room enables health professionals to reduce this risk. In this context, we have developed, in collaboration with researchers and physicians, a new type of instrumented forceps that offers new solutions for training obstetricians in the safe performance of forceps deliveries. This paper focuses on the design of this instrumented forceps, coupled with the BirthSIM simulator. This instrumented forceps allows to study its displacement inside the maternal pelvis. Methods for analyzing the operator repeatability and to compare forceps blade placements to a reference one are developed. The results highlight the need of teaching tools to adequately train novice obstetricians.

[Can we still perform instrumental rotations using Thierry's spatula? Preliminary study among primiparous]

OBJECTIVES

To study immediate perineal and neonatal outcomes after instrumental rotational performed with Thierry's spatula among primiparous, and compare subsequent perineal tear with occiput posterior position delivery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study was performed from December 2005 to June 2006 at Paule-de-Viguier hospital (Toulouse university hospital) including all persistent occiput posterior vaginal deliveries among primiparous (49 patients). Mode of delivery was: 1) seven patients with spontaneous occiput anterior vaginal delivery (14.3%); 2) seven patients with rotational extraction using spatula with occiput anterior delivery (30.6%); 3) twenty-seven patients with instrumental extraction and occiput posterior delivery (55.1%). Maternal and fetal parameters were studied prospectively.

RESULTS

Spatula was performed for failure of progress in 71.4% of cases (n=30) and for no reassuring fetal status in 28.6% of cases (n=12). In "rotational group", only one perineal tear was observed (Third degree) (6.6%) versus seven in "occiput posterior extraction group" (26%) with three severe perineal lacerations. Neonatal superficial lesions are frequent (26,6% after rotation versus 11.6% after occiput posterior extraction). None severe traumatic tears were observed.

CONCLUSION

Instrumental rotation using Thierry's spatula seems to be less deleterious for maternal perineum than occiput posterior extraction, without increasing neonatal complications. Theses preliminary results have to be confirmed by more important prospective works.

The impact of a trial of instrumental delivery in theatre on neonatal outcome

OBJECTIVE

To observe the effect of a trial of instrumental delivery in theatre on outcome for mother and baby.

DESIGN

A prospective observational study.

METHODS

Relevant maternal and neonatal data were collected for all instrumental deliveries of singleton viable pregnancies delivered over a three month period.

POPULATION

Two hundred and twenty nine consecutive deliveries conducted by ventouse or forceps because of fetal distress or dystocia.

SETTING

The maternity unit of a teaching hospital delivering around 6000 women annually.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The decision-to-delivery intervals (DDI), mode of delivery and neonatal condition at birth.

RESULTS

Sixty (26%) deliveries were managed as a trial in theatre, 46 (77%) because of prolonged second stage, with malposition being a factor in 39, and 14 (23%) because of fetal distress. The mean +/- SD DDI for these 60 deliveries was 59.2 +/- 20.4 minutes (median 58 minutes) compared with 21.2 +/- 9.0 minutes (median 20 minutes) for 169 delivered in the labour room (P < 0.0001). Of these 169 deliveries, 168 were delivered within 46 minutes and 1 delivered by caesarean section at 60 minutes. Nine women (13%) ultimately delivered by caesarean section, eight following a trial in theatre; in seven, there was malposition. Deliveries following a trial had slightly less favourable cord blood gas results.

CONCLUSIONS

Trial of instrumental delivery takes two to three times longer than delivery in the labour room; fetal malposition was the major indication for the trial of instrumental delivery and reason for failed delivery. Adopting the recent guidelines of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, at least 107 (47%) should have been managed as a trial in theatre. The added delay in delivery could be damaging to an already hypoxic fetus, and the use of a trial should be individually assessed.

Evaluation of obstetric gestures: an approach based on the curvature of 3-D positions

This paper presents a method to evaluate a gesture carried out by a resident obstetrician doctors by comparing it to a gesture carried out by an expert obstetrician doctors. The studied gesture is the forceps blade placement. Residents were recorded on a childbirth simulator while placing forceps blades. Their paths were compared in order to evaluate how similar they are to a reference path defined by an expert. The comparison method is developed with respect to expert requests: time independence and in considering the whole set of data and not only particular points. In order to respect these requests, the developed method lies on the correlation coefficient between the path curvatures. Residents have been trained on a simulator and their gestures were evaluated by comparing their path curvatures to reference path curvatures. Quantitative results confirm the qualitative analysis, residents become more similar to the reference while training on simulator.

Palpatory diagnosis of plagiocephaly

INTRODUCTION

The term plagiocephaly, from the Greek plagios (oblique) and kephalê (head), means distortion of the head, and refers clinically to cranial asymmetry. Cranial Osteopathy, since it was first proposed, has focussed upon the diagnosis and treatment of birth trauma and cranial asymmetries, and consequently specific therapy for plagiocephalic deformities has been described. Osteopathic manipulation also has been proposed as a treatment for torticollis, a condition associated with plagiocephaly. For these reasons, we decided to look at the mechanics of the occipital bone and the adjacent atlas and bones of the cranial base, in relation to functional plagiocephaly.

METHODS

The records of 649 children seen in an osteopathic practice in Lyon, France, were reviewed retrospectively, in compliance with the legal requirements of the Commission Nationale de l'Informatique et des Libertés (CRIL) and the Helsinki accord, for gender, age at presentation, birth history, obstetrical data (breech presentation, vacuum extraction, forceps delivery or Caesarean section), presenting complaint, side of posterior plagiocephaly, side of frontal plagiocephaly, torticollis, motion pattern of the occipital bone upon the atlas, and motion pattern of the spheno-occipital synchondrosis.

RESULTS

We found significant correlations between plagiocephaly (right/left) and primipara (P=0.024), use of forceps (P=0.055) and extractor suction (P=0.055). Correlations were also found between flattening of the occiput (right/left) and lateral strain of the spheno-occipital synchondrosis (P=0.002) and between plagiocephaly (right/left) and occipito-atlantal motion (P=0.000).

CONCLUSION

We found a significant correlation between the lateral strain pattern of the spheno-occipital synchondrosis and plagiocephaly and between rotational dysfunction of the occiput upon the atlas and the side of posterior plagiocephaly. We suggest that thorough neonatal osteopathic examination can identify individuals predisposed to develop posterior plagiocephaly.

Extraction instrumentale par spatules de Thierry

OBJECTIVES

To describe the frequency of maternal and neonatal complications resulting from the use of Thierry's spatulas.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study included 166 patients treated during a 17-month period.

RESULTS

For 100% of the patients, the use of the spatulas allowed the extraction of the new born, in 68 cases (41%) the new born was engaged between one and two centimeters below the spines. A medio-lateral episiotomy was performed in 159 patients (96%). A serious perineal tear (Type 3) occurred for 6 of these patients (3.6%). A simple perineal tear (Type 1) or vaginal tear occurred in 24 (18%). Episiotomy was performed in 18 patients and was significantly protective. No case of serious neonatal complication were related to the use of the spatulas.

CONCLUSION

We found that perineal tear rate is similar to that observed with other instruments used for fetal extraction. No case of fetal trauma could be related to the use of the spatulas; this was the goal of Thierry who creation the instrument. The use of Thierry's spatulas as a reference instrument is warranted, particularly for cases of prematurity, as these spatulas fulfil the modern obstetrics requirements of fetal protection, without maternal risk.

Maternal and neonatal morbidity after first vaginal delivery using Thierry's spatulas

OBJECTIVE

To analyse maternal and neonatal morbidity associated with instrumental delivery using Thierry's spatulas.

METHODS

Between January 2001 and December 2003, 570 nulliparous women with term, singleton, cephalic pregnancies gave birth by either instrumental (n = 279) or spontaneous vaginal delivery (n = 291) and were studied in a retrospective case-control study. Maternal and neonatal morbidity were compared in the instrumental vs. spontaneous delivery groups.

RESULTS

Women who underwent instrumental delivery using Thierry's spatula were more likely to have severe perineal tears (ORa 7.5, 95% CI 1.5, 32.3), urinary retention (OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.3, 5.6), postpartum blood loss (ORa 3.4, 2.4, 4.9) and extended hospital stay (OR 3.21, 95% CI 2.3, 4.6) than women having a spontaneous vaginal birth. Regarding the infant, one case of subgaleal haematoma was noted. No significant difference was noted in neonatal period.

CONCLUSION

This data support the safety of Thierry's spatula on infant outcome. Maternal morbidity observed with Thierry spatulas was similar to that reported in the literature for other modes of instrumental delivery but the risk for perineal morbidity was higher than for spontaneous delivery. Neonatal morbidity appeared to be limited.

A meta-analysis of upright positions in the second stage to reduce instrumental deliveries in women with epidural analgesia

BACKGROUND

Epidural analgesia is associated with an increased risk of instrumental delivery. We, in this study, present a systematic review in order to assess the effectiveness of maintaining an upright position during the second stage of labor to reduce instrumental deliveries among women choosing epidural analgesia. The study population included women with uncomplicated pregnancies at term with epidural analgesia established in the first stage of labor.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL databases and the Cochrane Trials Register up to July 2003 and cross-checked the reference lists of published studies. Trial eligibility and outcomes were pre-specified. Group tabular data were obtained for each trial and were analyzed by using meta-analytic techniques.

RESULTS

Only two studies were included with data on 281 women (166 upright and 115 recumbent). Upright positions in the second stage were associated with a non-significant reduction in the risk of both instrumental delivery (relative risk (RR) = 0.77, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.46-1.28) and cesarean section (RR = 0.57, 95% CI = 0.28-1.16). Both studies reported a statistically significant reduction in labor duration associated with upright positions. Data on other outcomes, including perineal trauma, postpartum hemorrhage, maternal satisfaction, and infant well-being, were insufficient.

CONCLUSIONS

There were insufficient data to show a significant benefit from upright positions in the second stage of labor for women who choose epidural or to evaluate safety aspects. However the magnitude of the reductions in instrumental delivery and cesarean section warrants an adequately powered randomized, controlled trial to fully evaluate the practice of upright positions in the second stage for women with an epidural.

L'extraction instrumentale par spatules de Thierry : étude de la morbidité maternofœtale

OBJECTIVE

Assisted delivery is necessary in many obstetrical conditions but is involved in maternal and foetal complications. The legal pressure and the commendable aim consisting in less neonatal morbidity and mortality have called forth a reflection about the type and the way of instrumental foetal extraction. In 1950, Thierry had already felt this problem and he invented spatula to replace obstetrical forceps. Although this instrument appears empirically little deleterious, literature about its evaluation is very poor. We studied this instrument in a retrospective 190 cases series.

PATIENTS AND METHOD

Retrospective study of 190 Thierry's spatula extractions, over a seven-year period (January 1996 to December 2002), at the Centre Hospitalier General of Montbeliard.

RESULTS

Out of a total of 8126 deliveries for the study period, the instrumental extraction rate was 5.3%, with 40.6% spatula extractions (190 cases). No failure of Thierry's spatula extraction was noted. DISCUSSION ET CONCLUSION: Our study concludes that spatula is efficient but does not usually permit anterior rotation of occipito-posterior presentation. Maternal and foetal morbidity is not frequent.

Forceps delivery at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria

The incidence of forceps delivery has reduced in Nigeria and in the world in general. Some Obstetricians have not been trained in its use and lack the skill.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the outcome of forceps delivery at this centre.

METHODOLOGY

A retrospective analysis of all forceps delivery done at this centre between the 1st of January 1997 and 31st December 2001, a 5-year period was done.

RESULTS

The incidence of forceps delivery was 1.57% or 16 per 1000 births and they were all low cavity deliveries. Most of the patients (68.5%) were booked at this centre. The mean age was 28.21 +/- 4.79 years and most (64.4%) were nulliparious. The mean gestational age at delivery was 38.7 +/- 3.0 weeks. The most common indications were prolonged second stage of labour (58.9%), maternal distress (43.8%) and fetal distress (15.1%). There were multiple indications in some patients. The mean birth weight was 3.03 +/- 0.69 kgs and 90.4% were live births. The main maternal complications were maternal injuries (8.1%), primary post partum haemorrhage (5.5%), anaemia (5.5%) and retained products of conception (4.1%). Maternal deaths occurred in 2 eclamptics and birth asphyxia in 6.9% of babies. The perinatal mortality rate was 54.8 per 1000 births. There were no fetal injuries.

CONCLUSION

Obstetrics forceps delivery is on the decline in Nigeria. It is an art that can safely and quickly deliver the fetus. It could be offered in the place of a caesarean section in some instances with a good outcome to both the mother and fetus in skilled hands. Obstetricians should be trained to use it more frequently.

Brachial plexus paresis associated with fetal neck compression from forceps

Instrumental vaginal deliveries have been associated with higher risks of brachial plexus injuries. The proposed mechanisms involve the indirect association of instrumental deliveries with shoulder dystocia and nerve stretch injuries secondary to rotations of 90 degrees or more. We present a brachial plexus paresis resulting from direct compression of the forceps blade in the fetal neck. A term infant was delivered by a low Kielland forceps rotation. No shoulder dystocia was noted. The immediate neonatal exam revealed an Erb's palsy and an ipsilateral bruise in the lateral aspect of the neck. The paresis resolved during the first day of life. Direct cervical compression of the fetal neck by forceps in procedures involving rotations of the presentation may result in brachial plexus injuries.

Management of the perineum during forceps delivery. Association of episiotomy with the frequency and severity of perineal trauma in women undergoing forceps delivery

OBJECTIVE

To examine the association of the frequency and severity of perineal trauma with episiotomy performed at forceps delivery.

STUDY DESIGN

This retrospective study analyzed all forceps deliveries at the Semmelweis Women's Hospital Vienna between February 1999 and July 1999. Evaluation of a possible association of episiotomy with the frequency and severity of perineal trauma was the main objective of the study. Episiotomy was not performed routinely and was either midline or mediolateral.

RESULTS

In conjunction with forceps delivery episiotomy, 76/87 women (87%) underwent forceps delivery episiotomy; among those, 49/76 (64%) had a mediolateral episiotomy and 27/76 (36%) a midline episiotomy. The frequency and severity of perineal tears were significantly lower in forceps deliveries when an episiotomy was performed. When analyzing the type of episiotomy, the data revealed a statistically significantly lower frequency of perineal trauma when mediolateral episiotomy was performed as compared to midline episiotomy.

CONCLUSION

If obstetric indications necessitate forceps delivery, performance of an episiotomy decreases the risk of perineal tears of all degrees. When analyzing the type of episiotomy, mediolateral episiotomy seems to be more protective against perineal trauma in women undergoing forceps delivery.

[Electronic quantification of traction force during use of a mechanical calving aid in bovine parturition]

In this study, a specially developed computer-controlled system was used to obtain a continuous measurement of the forces that arise when using a mechanical calving aid. By this means, potentiograms for twenty-four births in cows using a tractive device were obtained (fourteen primiparae with an average age of twenty-eight months; ten pluriparae with an average age of fifty-four months; breeds: thirteen RB, eleven SB). A modern mechanical calving device with a locking mechanism was used as an aid in the extraction process. In births with use of light tractive force (approx. 50 kp), extraction took between 41 and +/- 21 seconds. Moderately heavy tractive force (approx. 80-100 kp) was applied in extractions taking 86 to +/- 22 seconds, whereas heavy tractive force (etwa 100-120 kp) was used in extractions lasting between 268 and +/- 117 seconds. The highest levels measured for brief applications of force were between 130 and 140 kp. Single strains of up to 150 kp were reached. Injuries in the soft birth canal were ascertained in 29.2% of the births. Such injuries were discerned more often in primiparae than in the pluriparae. The lacerations were merely superficial and caused no further after-effects. There were no limb injuries in the calves. For the use of mechanical calving aids the use of chains with exact markings should ensure that the limbs are fixated at equal lengths. Furthermore, every device should be equipped with a locking mechanism (150 kp) to prevent the use of too much force. This also prevents misjudgment of the birth situation concerning fetus size and the dimensions of the mother cow's pelvis.

A randomised prospective trial of the obstetric forceps versus vacuum extraction using defined criteria

The objective of this study was to determine the safety of obstetrics forceps when used under strictly defined criteria compared to vacuum extraction for delivery in the second stage of labour. A randomised prospective trial was performed on 442 women undergoing instrumental delivery in the second stage. Two hundred and four women were in the forceps group and 238 in the vacuum group. When using forceps traction efforts to deliver the baby were kept to less than three and the head was always delivered in the occipito-anterior position. In the two groups there were no significant difference in the incidence of third-degree perineal tears, post-partum haemorrhage or ruptured uterus. Cervical tears were slightly higher in the forceps group. Babies delivered by vacuum extraction showed a higher incidence of cephalhaematomas. There was no significant difference in babies needing resuscitation at birth, admission to neonatal intensive care unit, stillbirth or neonatal death rates. The failure rate was significantly higher in the vacuum group. The time taken to complete the procedure was significantly less in the forceps group. Forceps deliveries when performed under defined criteria are as safe as vacuum deliveries to the mother with a lesser failure rate and a lower incidence of cephalhaematomas in the neonate compared with vacuum deliveries.

Cephalocentesis with the modified Smellie's perforator

A 37-year-old pregnant woman, gravida 2, para 0, was referred to Ramathibodi Hospital at 31 weeks of gestation with the diagnosis of hydrocephalus and polyhydramnios. Repeated ultrasound scans revealed hydrocephalus with macrocephaly (BPD=10.3 cm), polyhydramnios (AFI=31.5), and a suspected esophageal atresia. After counseling, both parents decided not to pursue the pregnancy and requested vaginal delivery. They decided against transabdominal, ultrasonic-guided cephalocentesis because of its invasiveness, patient's awareness, and pain. Skull decompression with the modified Smellie's perforator was performed after five 400-microg doses of misoprostol were applied to dilate the cervix. The post-partum condition was uneventful. Fetal skull decompression with the modified Smellie's perforator and misoprostol for cervix dilation is a useful, simple, and safe procedure that can be performed with no previous experience.

Comparison of maternal and infant outcomes between vacuum extraction and forceps deliveries

The authors conducted a population-based historical cohort study in the Canadian province of Quebec to assess the maternal and infant outcomes associated with vacuum extraction and forceps deliveries. The study database contains information on 305,391 mother-infant dyads (linked by a common institutional code and hospital chart number) for singleton live vaginal births with a nonbreech presentation at the gestational age of 37 or more completed weeks and a birth weight between 2,500 and 4,000 g during fiscal years 1991/1992 to 1995/1996. Of the births, 31,015 were delivered by vacuum extraction, and 18,727 were delivered by forceps. Compared with delivery by forceps, the adjusted risk ratios for third-/fourth-degree perineal laceration, intracranial hemorrhage, subdural or cerebral hemorrhage, intraventricular hemorrhage, subarachnoid hemorrhage, cephalhematoma, and neonatal in-hospital death were 0.48 (95% confidence interval: 0.45, 0.50), 1.28 (95% confidence interval: 0.73, 2.25), 0.97 (95% confidence interval: 0.49, 1.93), 0.99 (95% confidence interval: 0.16, 5.97), 5.44 (confidence interval: 1.26, 23.43), 2.02 (95% confidence interval: 1.89, 2.16), and 0.93 (95% confidence interval: 0.32, 2.70), respectively. The authors conclude that vacuum extraction causes less maternal trauma but may increase the risk of cephalhematoma and certain types of intracranial hemorrhage (e.g., subarachnoid hemorrhage).

Upper cervical spinal cord injury in neonates: the use of magnetic resonance imaging

Neonatal upper cervical spinal cord injury is associated with rotational forceps delivery and presents with quadriparesis and diaphragmatic paralysis. The underlying pathology determines neurologic outcome but is difficult to assess clinically or with simple radiographic techniques. We report 4 cases in which early magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated the extent and severity of the injury and guided management.

Use of obstetric forceps in Finland today--experience at Vaasa Central Hospital 1984-1998

BACKGROUND

Forceps delivery has become rare in Finland since the introduction of the vacuum extractor. Our aim was to survey the number of forceps deliveries in Finland and analyze our own material of 130 forceps deliveries during a 15-year period between 1984 and 1998. During this period there were 17,887 deliveries at Vaasa Central Hospital.

METHODS

A retrospective study of 130 forceps deliveries and 11 trial forceps cases, which subsequently resulted in a cesarean section.

RESULTS

There was no maternal or neonatal mortality. In 39 cases a cesarean section could be avoided by use of forceps after a failed vacuum extraction. Only in one case was maternal morbidity regarded as serious. There was no serious neonatal morbidity. Anal sphincter ruptures occurred in three cases (2.3%). All the women in the trial forceps group were nulliparous, in 73% of these the fetus was in a persistent occipito-posterior position. Failed vacuum extraction and trial forceps did not significantly influence neonatal outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

Forceps delivery appears to be a safe alternative in our setting.

Forceps-assisted vaginal delivery

Operative vaginal delivery using forceps has been an important part of obstetric practice for nearly 400 years. Countless women and their children have benefited from timely and expertly performed procedures. Physicians must, therefore, make every effort to retain these skills, to modify and improve them in every possible way, and to pass them on. In this way, women and children of future generations will benefit from the many years of experience that have gone before them.

Neonatal and maternal complications among pregnant women delivered by vacuum extraction or forceps extraction

A historical cohort study was used to analyse the maternal and neonatal complications among pregnant women delivered by vacuum or forceps extraction at Rajavithi Hospital, 1994. The maternal complications (third and fourth degree of perineal tear and postpartum hemorrhage) were statistically significant more often in the forceps group than in the vacuum extraction group. But fetal complications (neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, low Apgar scores (< 7) at 1 and 5 minutes and the transfer to NICU) were statistically significant more often in the vacuum extraction group than in the forceps group.

[Instrumental and manual maneuvers during delivery]

Delivery through the maternal genital tract can be assisted or performed using specific instruments. In France, these techniques are used in 15% of deliveries. The three instruments used are the forceps, the vacuum extractor and the spatula. Manual manoeuvres are essentially used in breech presentation. These are mainly partial and total breech extractions with their many variations. The version consisting of external manoeuvering precedes delivery. In cephalic presentations, the only possible manual manoeuvre is manual rotation of the foetal head.

Operative vaginal delivery--year 2000

Literature review was performed to analyze and define the current state of operative vaginal delivery. On the basis of published data, it is concluded that outlet and low forceps deliveries with < or = 45 degrees of rotation are effective and safe for both mother and baby. The greatest risk to mother or fetus occurs with operations performed at the 0 or +1 station or those involving rotations > 45 degrees. It is likely that operative deliveries involving > 45 degrees of rotation will be abandoned in the future. It is further recommended that The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists 1988 forceps classification system be adopted for deliveries by vacuum extractors.

The Hay's flexion rotation obstetric forceps: reestablishing relevance in modern obstetrics

A prospective evaluation of 140 forceps deliveries with the Hay's flexion rotation obstetric forceps was undertaken over a 5-year period. The Hay's forceps was used for a variety of indications and included outlet forceps application in 35.7%, low or midforceps application in 29.3% with forceps rotation in 16.4%, 19.3% of applications for an aftercoming head and 19.3% applications at caesarean section. Outlet forceps deliveries had maternal and neonatal outcomes comparable with the Wrigley's short obstetric forceps. Midforceps applications were compared to the Simpson's long forceps, with maternal morbidity at 21% being significantly less, blade marks being the only neonatal morbidity and the Apgar scores being significantly higher with the Hay's forceps. Every forceps application at caesarean section resulted in an easy delivery. Thus the Hay's forceps with innovations such as parallelism and flexion potential could revalidate the role of the forceps in contemporary obstetrics.

Trends in obstetric operative procedures, 1980 to 1987

OBJECTIVES

Increasing rates of cesarean deliveries have received widespread attention in recent years, as concern in the United States about unnecessary surgical procedures has increased. However, little information has been published on the national trends of other operative obstetric procedures occurring during deliveries.

METHODS

We analyzed data from the National Hospital Discharge Survey to examine trends in the use of forceps, vacuum extraction, and cesarean section from 1980 through 1987.

RESULTS

The rate of cesarean sections increased by 48%, while the rate of forceps procedures declined by 43%. Although the risk of cesarean section was significantly increased for older women, the risk of forceps and vacuum extraction procedures did not vary by age. Women with private insurance were significantly more likely to receive a cesarean section (rate ratio [RR] = 1.2), forceps procedure (RR = 1.7), and vacuum extraction procedure (RR = 1.8) than were women without private insurance.

CONCLUSIONS

As pressure mounts to decrease the national cesarean section rate from 24% to 15% by the year 2000, attention should also be given to surveillance of other operative delivery procedures.

Kielland's forceps delivery: is it a dying art?

A retrospective study in the use of Kielland's Forceps for rotation of the foetal head and mid-cavity delivery in Kandang Kerbau Hospital, Singapore from 1987-1990 is presented. Out of a total of 53,889 singleton births during this period, Kielland's Forceps was used for delivery in 137 (0.25%) patients with an incidence of 0.65% in the primiparae and 0.07% in the multiparae. Primiparity, induction of labour and epidural analgesia were associated with a significantly higher incidence of rotational delivery by Kielland's forceps. The success rate of Kielland's forceps delivery was 93.4% (128 of 137). There was no maternal or perinatal mortality. About one-third of the mothers experienced postpartum morbidity, commonest being retention of urine, postpartum haemorrhage and vaginal lacerations. Traumatic injuries were present in about one-quarter of the babies and were minor. Out of a total of 306 mid-cavity deliveries for occipito-transverse malposition, Kielland's forceps accounted for 38.2% (117), vacuum extraction 30.7% (94), manual rotation followed by Neville-Barnes forceps 11.1% (34) and Caesarean section 20.0% (61). The junior specialists tended to use vacuum extraction for rotational delivery more than the senior specialists.