Abstract

Second stage Caesarean section as a result of failed operative delivery is increasing. This may partly be due to inadequate training and wrong choice of instrument. Our aim was to use questionnaire survey to ascertain the choice of instruments used by trainees in second stage. Of the 63 questionnaires sent out, 50 trainees replied, given a response rate of 77%.

62% would use forceps if there is fetal distress and the vertex is below the spine and the reason was because it was likely to succeed. 38% preferred vacuum extractor because that was what they usually use. When asked which instrument they would use in delayed second stage in spite of good maternal effort (vertex occipitat anterior and below spine), 42% would use forceps and the reason was because it was likely to succeed than vacuum. 40% would use vacuum and the reason again was because it was what they usually use. 96% of trainees agreed that wrong choice of instrument may lead to failure and hence Caesarean section. 42% agreed that further training in operative delivery with emphasis on determination of vertex position and supervision will help them to choose instruments appropriate to the clinical circumstances.