Stepwise compared with rapid application of vacuum in ventouse extraction procedures.

OBJECTIVE

To compare a one-step (rapid) application of negative pressure (vacuum) with conventional stepwise application for ventouse extraction following a prolonged second stage of labour.

DESIGN

Randomised controlled study.

SETTING

Teaching Hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Forty-seven women were randomised to the rapid vacuum group and 47 to the stepwise group.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Duration of ventouse procedure, effectiveness of methods of application, morbidity of mother and infant.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in frequency of detachment of the cup after rapid or stepwise application of vacuum. A reduction in mean duration of the ventouse procedure of 6 min was realised without significant difference in maternal or neonatal morbidity.

CONCLUSION

Rapid application of vacuum significantly reduces the duration of a ventouse extraction procedure without compromise to efficiency and safety.