A review of 2000 consecutive forceps deliveries

ABSTRACT

Two thousand forceps deliveries done at the Philippine General Hospital from October 1945 - January 1951 were reviewed. The indications, conditions, and contra-indications for forceps operations were analyzedA total of 1,404 low forceps (70.2%), 569 midforceps (28.4%) and 27 high forceps (0.1%) were noted. Indicated forceps occurred in 995 cases (49.8%) and non-indicated forceps in 1,005 cases (50.2%). Maternal indications (948 cases) were the most frequent causes for the operation while fetal indications (47%) were rare causesLess complications were noted in low operations than in the higher types of operations. The most serious complications were rupture of the uterus, deep perineal tears, and cervical tears. Morbidity was found related with the type of operation. Fifteen maternal deaths caused by midforceps in eight cases and by low forceps in 7 cases were observed. Uncorrected maternal mortality was 0.75% while corrected mortality was 0.1%Two forceps operations were presented with poor results. Adequate prenatal and natal care were deemed neededThe study indicated that high forceps should be condemned and that midforceps be avoided