Rotational Forceps: Which technique is superior for blade insertion? A simulation study comparing direct, first posterior, and wandering maneuvers.

OBJECTIVE: The Kielland's forceps is the most used forceps for assisting rotational operative births. There are various maneuvers described for blade insertion. Among these, the most used ones are the direct, first posterior, and wandering maneuver. The objective of this study was to compare these three maneuvers using a simulator. STUDY DESIGN: In this experimental study, 144 rotational forceps-assisted births were conducted using a simulation model, with 72 starting in a right occiput-transverse position and 72 in a left occiput-transverse position. Each of the three maneuvers (direct, first posterior, or wandering) for blade insertion was performed 48 times by a total of 6 operators, comprising 3 obstetricians with over 10 years of experience and 3 trainees. The assessment of forceps application included evaluating the placement of the blades in terms of asymmetry and the distance from the lock to the posterior fontanelle. Additionally, the study evaluated the number of reinsertions and relocations required, the perceived difficulty of the procedure, and the operator's level of experience. RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences in terms of asymmetry with the three maneuvers. Regarding the distance from the lock to the posterior fontanelle, the best results were obtained with the direct maneuver. There were no differences in the number of reinsertions, relocations, and the perceived difficulty by the operators among the three maneuvers. Experienced obstetricians had better outcomes in terms of the need for reinsertions. CONCLUSION: The direct maneuver offer advantages in the insertion of blades for rotational forceps.

Which type of forceps is better for nonrotational operative births? A simulation study comparing Thierry spatulas and Simpson-Braun and Kielland forceps.

OBJECTIVE: Obstetric forceps play an important role in safe childbirth, yet there is a lack of distinction between various forceps types in clinical practice. This study aimed to evaluate and compare perineal pressure and forces on the baby during nonrotational forceps-assisted births using Simpson-Braun forceps, Kielland forceps, and Thierry spatulas on a simulation model. METHODS: This experimental study involved six obstetricians conducting 108 forceps-assisted births on a simulation model. Instruments were assessed for their impact on perineal pressure, traction force, and operator-assessed difficulty. RESULTS: Thierry's spatulas exerted the lowest force on the baby, while Kielland forceps exhibited the lowest perineal pressure, though not statistically significant. An experienced obstetrician demonstrated less perineal pressure with Simpson forceps. Notably, no significant differences in difficulty were observed between instruments. CONCLUSION: This study highlights distinctions in forceps performance, with Thierry spatulas applying the least force on the fetal head, while an experienced obstetrician fared better with Simpson forceps in terms of perineal pressure. Kielland forceps remain a viable alternative for nonrotational forceps births, showing comparable outcomes.