Shoulder dystocia during vaginal delivery

Czech version

Authors: Lukáš Hruban ¹; M. Procházka ²; Petr Janků ¹
Authors‘ workplace: Gynekologicko-porodnická klinika MU a FN Brno, přednosta prof. MUDr. P. Ventruba, DrSc. ¹; Gynekologicko-porodnická klinika LF UP a FN Olomouc, přednosta doc. MUDr. R. Pilka, Ph. D. ²
Published in: Ceska Gynekol 2010; 75(4): 274-279

Overview

Shoulder dystocia is defined as a complication of vaginal delivery that requires additional obstetric manoeuvres to release the shoulders of the baby. Reported incidence of shoulder dystocia is around 0.6-1.4%. Serious perinatal morbidity is associated with this type of complication. Brachial plexus injuries are one of the most important fetal complications of shoulder dystocia. Some cases results in permanent brachial plexus dysfunction. A high level of awareness and training for all birth attendants is recommended. The purpose of this article is to review the current evidence regarding the possible prediction and management of shoulder dystocia.

Key words:
shoulder dystocia, brachial plexus injuries.

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