Which technique is better to place a manoeuvrable vacuum extractor cup on the flexion point? Vacca vs. Bird technique.

Abstract

Objectives The purpose of this study is to compare the vacuum extractor cup application technique described by Bird vs. the technique described by Vacca on a simulation model. Methods Six obstetricians participated in the study. Each obstetrician performed eight vacuum assisted deliveries using the Bird technique and eight vacuum assisted deliveries using the Vacca 5-Steps technique. Results A total of 96 vacuum assisted deliveries were performed. The mean distance from the centre of the cup to the flexion point was 1.78±0.96cm for the Bird technique and 1.05±0.60cm for the Vacca technique (p<0.001). The lateral distance (over the parietal bone) was 1.16±0.69cm for the Bird technique and 0.66±0.52cm for the Vacca technique (p<0.001). The vertical distance (towards the frontal or occipital bone) was 1.12±1.02cm for the Bird technique and 0.67±0.55cm for the Vacca technique (p=0.009). In occipito anterior positions, there were no significant differences between both techniques. Conclusions The Vacca technique was better in transverse and posterior positions.