Shoulder Dystocia

OBG-CLN-GUD-38-Vers.3.0 | Royal Hospital

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