Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 26, 2026

In situ Transverse Rectus Abdominis Myocutaneous Flap: A Rat Model of Myocutaneous Ischemia Reperfusion Injury
Published on: June 8, 2013
A device for measurement of radius of curvature of obstetric forceps
N A Gough1, G Morgan, D M McKenna
1Department of Obstetrics, University of Wales College of Medicine, UK.
Details of the design of obstetric forceps are important to ensure that they can be used safely for mother and baby. One of the most important measurements is the radius of the cephalic curve of the blades since if this is inappropriate there will be a poor grip on the baby's head and risk of slippage, superficial injury or even intracranial haemorrhage and brain damage because of undue compression. Because of the complex design of the forceps blades, which have a pelvic curve as well as a cephalic curve and a fenestra, the radius of the cephalic curve is difficult to measure. A device was designed to facilitate this measurement and was found to be accurate and reliable in use. This was the first stage in the study to assess the suitability for modern practice of instruments designed many years ago.
Details of the design of obstetric forceps are important to ensure that they can be used safely for mother and baby. One of the most important measurements is the radius of the cephalic curve of the blades since if this is inappropriate there will be a poor grip on the baby's head and risk of slippage, superficial injury or even intracranial haemorrhage and brain damage because of undue compression. Because of the complex design of the forceps blades, which have a pelvic curve as well as a cephalic curve and a fenestra, the radius of the cephalic curve is difficult to measure. A device was designed to facilitate this measurement and was found to be accurate and reliable in use. This was the first stage in the study to assess the suitability for modern practice of instruments designed many years ago.
Related Concept Videos
Radius of Gyration of an Area
Measurements of Strain
Degree of Curvature and Radius of Curvature
Field Procedure for Staking Out Curves
Polar Curves
Curvature and Its Interpretation

