Outcome of forceps delivery versus vacuum extraction--a review of 200 cases

The outcome of 100 patients undergoing instrumental delivery with vacuum extractor is compared with that of 100 women delivered with the aid of obstetric forceps. Forceps deliveries were more commonly associated with maternal birth canal trauma (including episiotomy) whilst vacuum extractor carried higher odds of the neonate developing jaundice. Apart from these, there were no significant differences between these two groups in terms of maternal morbidity, neonatal trauma and morbidity and ultimate outcome (success with the type of instrument used). We conclude that with meticulous handling of the instrument and with an appropriate decision on the indication and the type of instrument used, the maternal and neonatal outcome could be equally good with the use of either instrument.