Association between vacuum extraction and subgaleal haemorrhage: can intrapartum ultrasound reduce the risks? Abstract

Choi-Wah KONG, William WK TO
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, United Christian Hospital, Hong Kong

Vacuum extraction is a common procedure in the labour ward. Subgaleal haemorrhage is a rare neonatal complication that can be life threatening. We examine the risk factors associated with subgaleal haemorrhage after vacuum extraction, including fetal head malposition and inappropriate cup placement, and the role of intrapartum ultrasound in reducing perinatal complications. Although there is an increasing trend for using intrapartum ultrasound for more precise diagnosis of fetal head position, there is no evidence that this practice reduces failed vacuum delivery rates or perinatal morbidity.