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Posterior axilla sling traction: a technique for intractable shoulder dystocia
1From the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa; and Effective Care Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand/Fort Hare and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, East London Hospital complex, East London, South Africa.
Background:
We describe a new method for delivery of intractable shoulder dystocia with posterior axilla sling traction.
Cases:
Two cases of shoulder dystocia after intrauterine death are described where routine methods of delivery were unsuccessful. In each case, a soft plastic suction catheter was folded in half over the operator's fingertip and digitally inserted around the posterior shoulder, under the axilla, and retrieved with the other hand to create a sling to which traction was applied. The posterior shoulder, followed by the anterior shoulder, was easily delivered.
Conclusion:
Posterior axilla sling traction may overcome intractable shoulder dystocia and avoid more traumatic procedures in fetal death.