Operative vaginal delivery: clinical appraisal of a new vacuum extraction device.

The efficacy of a new vacuum extraction device, the Kiwi OmniCup, and its effects on mothers and infants were tested in a study of 18 non-rotational and 32 rotational vacuum assisted deliveries. Forty-nine (98%) of the extractions resulted in successful vaginal births. Autorotation of the fetal head when the occiput was transverse or posterior was achieved in 31 (97%) of the 32 vacuum procedures. The high success rates recorded for both vaginal delivery and autorotation of the fetal head were largely attributable to the fact that flexing cup applications were achieved in 90 % of the vacuum attempts. There were no cases of serious maternal trauma or clinically significant neonatal injuries. Two infants had cephalohaematomas and one infant developed a small subgaleal haemorrhage following a difficult delivery, which resolved rapidly without complications. It was concluded that the Kiwi OmniCup is an efficient and safe vacuum device for assisted vaginal delivery, provided it is used correctly and appropriately.