Category
Obstetrics Assisted Delivery
Typical Use
Assist vaginal delivery by applying controlled suction to the fetal scalp.
Description
A device that uses a soft or rigid suction cup attached to a vacuum pump to assist vaginal delivery by applying traction to the fetal head during maternal expulsive efforts, indicated in selected cases of prolonged second stage, nonreassuring fetal status, or maternal exhaustion when conditions for safe operative vaginal delivery are met. Vacuum extraction requires appropriate cup placement, controlled traction aligned with the pelvic axis, and readiness to convert to cesarean delivery if extraction fails; risks include scalp laceration, cephalohematoma, and neonatal intracranial hemorrhage in rare cases. Operator training, cup selection, and adherence to force and time limits are essential to optimize outcomes and minimize maternal and neonatal complications.