Stepwise compared with rapid application of vacuum in ventouse extraction procedures

Br J Obstet Gynaecol. 1997 Jan;104(1):33-6. doi: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.1997.tb10645.x.

Abstract

Objective: To compare a one-step (rapid) application of negative pressure (vacuum) with conventional stepwise application for ventouse extraction following a prolonged second stage of labour.

Design: Randomised controlled study.

Setting: Teaching Hospital.

Participants: Forty-seven women were randomised to the rapid vacuum group and 47 to the stepwise group.

Main outcome measures: Duration of ventouse procedure, effectiveness of methods of application, morbidity of mother and infant.

Results: There was no significant difference in frequency of detachment of the cup after rapid or stepwise application of vacuum. A reduction in mean duration of the ventouse procedure of 6 min was realised without significant difference in maternal or neonatal morbidity.

Conclusion: Rapid application of vacuum significantly reduces the duration of a ventouse extraction procedure without compromise to efficiency and safety.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Comparative Study
  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Acid-Base Equilibrium
  • Apgar Score
  • Female
  • Fetal Blood
  • Humans
  • Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
  • Infant
  • Infant Behavior
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Labor Stage, Second
  • Obstetric Labor Complications / therapy*
  • Pregnancy
  • Pressure
  • Scalp / injuries
  • Vacuum Extraction, Obstetrical / adverse effects
  • Vacuum Extraction, Obstetrical / methods*