gynecology and obstetrics
Shoulder Dystocia
Key Points
Prepare for shoulder dystocia if a large fetus is suspected (> 4000 g), and the progress of labor is protracted. If shoulder dystocia occurs, call extra personnel to the delivery room. Try various maneuvers sequentially to disengage the anterior shoulder. If these maneuvers are unsuccessful, place the fetal head back into the vagina or uterus and deliver the infant by cesarean. 