McRoberts maneuver

A technique used in obstetrics to manage shoulder dystocia during childbirth

Overview

The McRoberts maneuver is an obstetric technique used to manage shoulder dystocia, a complication that can occur during vaginal delivery. This maneuver involves positioning the mother in a way that increases the pelvic dimensions, thereby facilitating the delivery of the fetal shoulders.

Procedure

Diagram illustrating the McRoberts maneuver

The McRoberts maneuver is performed by flexing the mother's thighs sharply against her abdomen. This position is achieved by having assistants grasp the mother's legs and pull them back towards her chest. The maneuver flattens the sacrum and rotates the pubic symphysis superiorly, which can help free the impacted anterior shoulder of the fetus.

Mechanism

The effectiveness of the McRoberts maneuver is attributed to the biomechanical changes it induces in the maternal pelvis. By flexing the thighs, the angle of the pelvic inlet is increased, and the sacrum is straightened. This change in pelvic geometry can reduce the obstruction caused by the fetal shoulder and allow for successful delivery.

Indications

The McRoberts maneuver is indicated in cases of shoulder dystocia, which is diagnosed when the fetal shoulders fail to deliver shortly after the fetal head. It is often the first-line intervention due to its simplicity and non-invasive nature.

Advantages

The McRoberts maneuver is favored for its ease of application and minimal risk to both the mother and fetus. It does not require any special equipment and can be performed quickly in an emergency setting.

Limitations

While the McRoberts maneuver is effective in many cases, it may not resolve all instances of shoulder dystocia. In such cases, additional maneuvers or interventions, such as the suprapubic pressure or the Woods' screw maneuver, may be necessary.

Related pages

• Shoulder dystocia
• Vaginal delivery
• Obstetrics
• Pelvic anatomy