Shoulder Dystocia
OBG-CLN-GUD-38-Vers.3.0 | Royal Hospital
Type
Regulatory
Agency
Oman Ministry of Health
Issued on
12 Mar 2025 (corresponding to 12 Ramadan 1446 H)
Jurisdiction
Oman
Taxonomy
General Health Law
Shoulder dystocia
is a life-threatening emergency. It must be recognised and treated quickly to avoid significant morbidity and even mortality.
1.0 - Definition
Shoulder dystocia is any cephalic delivery where manoeuvres other than gentle traction are required to deliver the baby after the head has delivered. It is a bony impaction, usually of the anterior shoulder of the baby, on the maternal pelvis (usually the symphysis).
It occurs in up to 1% of deliveries.
Written By: Dr Saira Bano
Checked By: OBG PROTOCOL GROUP
Authorized by: MOUZA ABDULLAH AL SALMANI