European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Approximately 5% (1 in 20) of all deliveries are operative vaginal deliveries. The
past 20 years have seen a progressive shift away from forceps in favor of the
vacuum extractor as the instrument of choice. This article reviews in detail the
indications, contraindications, choice of instrument, and Application and
Technique for vacuum-assisted vaginal delivery. The use of vacuum extraction at
the time of cesarean delivery will also be discussed. With vacuum extraction
becoming increasingly popular, it is important that obstetric care providers are
aware of the maternal and neonatal risks associated with such deliveries and of the
options available to affect a safe and expedient delivery.