Shoulder dystocia--consequences and procedures

Abstract

Shoulder dystocia is defined as a standstill of delivery after the birth of the head and is attributed to an insufficient rotation of the shoulder. Risk factors include a history of prior macrosomia or shoulder dystocia, maternal obesity or excessive weight gain during pregnancy, maternal diabetes or postdate pregnancy and prolonged descent or midpelvic operative delivery. Neonatal morbidities associated with traumatic birth include fetal hypoxia with acidosis and permanent brachial plexus injury. After the recognition of a shoulder dystocia a series of steps should be undertaken beginning with cutting or extending the episiotomy, McRobert's Manoeuvre, Wood's Manoeuvre and delivery of posterior arm. A tocolytic administered as a bolus or general anesthesia also may be needed. Documentation should include the exact time the dystocia was recognized by the midwife and/or obstetrician, the time at which intervention was started and a detailed operative report.