Pennsylvania Vacuum extractors have replaced forceps for many situations in which assistance is required to achieve vaginal delivery. Vacuum extractors can cause neonatal injury. These devices should be employed when indicated, usually for a nonreassuring fetal heart tracing or failure to progress in the second stage of labor. Complications may be minimized if the physician recognizes contraindications to the use of vacuum extraction.
Complete documentation is essential.
W hen spontaneous vaginal delivery is not possible, instrumental delivery may be attempted. In 1705, Yonge described an attempted vaginal delivery using a cupping glass. More recently, bell-shaped and hemispheric silicone rubber cups have come into use. This article discusses the two basic types of vacuum extractors and their use in vaginal deliveries. Types of Vacuum Extractors See editorial on page 1269.