Barton's forceps deliveries at Paarl Hospital.

Experience in using Barton's forceps for mid-pelvic arrest of the fetal head in 348 cases has proved that this instrument is both easy to apply and safe for the baby, provided rigid adherence to safety criteria are observed. As modern obstetric practice is favourably disposed towards mid-pelvic forceps vaginal delivery, the particular advantages of Barton's forceps should be more widely extolled. Their use is an invaluable addition to the obstetrician's armamentarium. Training in their use should, however, be thorough and extensive and under the guidance of a skilled senior obstetrician.