[Kiwi vacuum extractor versus forceps and spatula: maternal and fetal morbidity evaluation in 169 fetal extractions]

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate maternal and fetal complications resulting from the use of the Kiwi vacuum extractor and to compare them with those resulting from the use of forceps or spatula.

Patients and methods: Patients who had instrumental extraction between November 2006 and April 2007 were included in a unicentric retrospective study. Complications resulting from the use of Kiwi vacuum extractor and those of other instruments were compared.

Results: One hundred and sixty-nine patients where included, 79 had extraction with Kiwi vacuum extractor. The two populations (women having extraction with Kiwi and woman having extraction with spatula or forceps) were similar in terms of maternal characteristics, progress of labour and delivery. The rate of episiotomies was significantly lower with KIWI (73.1% versus 94.4%; P=0.0001), as well as was postpartum haemorrhage rate (8.9 % versus 18.9%; P=0.04). No perineal tear of second or third degree occurred with Kiwi. Kiwi vacuum extractor was associated with a higher rate of shoulder dystocia (12.8% versus 6.7%, NS), but related fetal complication rates were similar in the two groups. The extraction failure rate was significantly higher with Kiwi (11.4% versus 4.4%; P=0.04), but cesarean section rate was similar for the two groups (1.3 % versus 4.4%).

Discussion and conclusion: This study is the first comparing complications occurring after extraction with KIWI vacuum extractor to those occurring with other instruments. Although the results are limited by the retrospective nature of the study and the small size of the workforce, our study suggests that Kiwi vacuum extractor is associated with a lower rate of maternal complications and a rate of fetal complication similar to other kind of instruments. This instrument should be promoted and taught to younger patricians. Our study also revealed higher failure and shoulder dystocia rates. Larger studies are needed to better evaluate risks factor concerning these two complications in order to optimise the use of Kiwi vacuum extractor.