Abstract
Objective
The aim of this study was to systematically search the literature for studies that
reported term neonate head size and shape, in an attempt to determine the most appropriate
dimensions for the obstetric forceps.
Study design
We searched the Ovid Medline, Ovid Embase and Ebscohost CINAHL databases from inception
to February 2016. We predefined inclusion criteria to identify studies in which head
width and length of asymptomatic, term neonates were measured soon after birth using
direct, non-photographic methods A bespoke quality assessment score was used to evaluate
the identified studies.
Results
Seven studies were identified which measured head width (biparietal diameter) in 551
neonates; giving a mean value of 94.0 mm (range 90.7 mm–95.5 mm). We identified one study which measured head length (mentovertical diameter) in
38 neonates; which gave a mean value of 134.5 mm (range 129 mm–139 mm).
Conclusion
This data, in conjunction with measurements of Neville Barnes’ and Wrigley’s forceps
from our previous study, indicates current obstetric forceps’ blades are too long,
and close together. Potentially, this could be contributing to neonatal and maternal
injuries associated with operational vaginal deliveries.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: October 28, 2017
Accepted:
October 24,
2017
Received in revised form:
October 17,
2017
Received:
September 19,
2017
Identification
Copyright
© 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
