Posterior axilla sling traction: a technique for intractable shoulder dystocia.

Abstract

We describe a new method for delivery of intractable shoulder dystocia with posterior axilla sling traction. Two cases of shoulder dystocia after intrauterine death are described where routine methods of delivery were unsuccessful. In each case, a soft plastic suction catheter was folded in half over the operator's fingertip and digitally inserted around the posterior shoulder, under the axilla, and retrieved with the other hand to create a sling to which traction was applied. The posterior shoulder, followed by the anterior shoulder, was easily delivered. Posterior axilla sling traction may overcome intractable shoulder dystocia and avoid more traumatic procedures in fetal death.