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Updated: Mar 30, 2026

Development of a Neonatal Rat Model for Brachial Plexus Birth Injury
Published on: March 27, 2026
[Neonatal complications related to shoulder dystocia]
E Lopez1, B de Courtivron2, E Saliba1
1Réanimation néonatale, hôpital Clocheville, CHU de Tours, 49, boulevard Béranger, 37044 Tours cedex 9, France.
Insights
Shoulder dystocia increases the risk of serious neonatal complications, including birth injuries and perinatal asphyxia. Prompt recognition and management by medical teams are crucial for improving infant outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Neonatology
- Pediatric Surgery
Background:
- Shoulder dystocia is a significant obstetric emergency.
- It is associated with a range of neonatal complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review neonatal complications following shoulder dystocia.
- To highlight the importance of prompt medical team management.
Main Methods:
- Systematic evidence review.
- Literature search of PubMed and Cochrane Library.
- Inclusion of expert recommendations.
Main Results:
- Increased risks of brachial plexus birth injury, clavicle and humeral fractures.
- Elevated incidence of perinatal asphyxia and hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy.
- Higher rates of perinatal mortality.
Conclusions:
- Neonates experiencing shoulder dystocia face a heightened risk of perinatal complications.
- Effective neonatal resuscitation and management are essential for mitigating adverse outcomes.
Objective:
To describe neonatal complications related to shoulder dystocia.
Methods:
This systematic evidence review is based on PubMed search, Cochrane library and experts' recommendations.
Results:
The risks of brachial plexus birth injury, clavicle and humeral fracture, perinatal asphyxia, hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy and perinatal mortality are increased after shoulder dystocia. The medical team should be able to provide neonatal resuscitation in the delivery room in case of perinatal asphyxia following shoulder dystocia, according to national and international guidelines. The initial clinical examination should search for complications such as brachial plexus birth injury or clavicle fracture.
Conclusion:
The risk of perinatal complications is increased in newborn after shoulder dystocia. The medical team should be able to manage these complications.
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