OBSTETRICAL FORCEPS Meaning and
Definition
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Obstetrical forceps are a surgical instrument commonly used in childbirth to facilitate the delivery of a baby. These forceps have a hinged, scissor-like structure that allows them to grasp the baby's head, enabling a healthcare professional to safely guide and assist its passage through the birth canal.
Typically made of stainless steel, obstetrical forceps consist of two curved metal blades with handles at one end and spoon-shaped cups at the other end. The cups are specifically designed to cradle the baby's head firmly yet gently, preventing harm to the newborn. The handles of the forceps provide a secure grip for the healthcare provider, enabling them to control and manipulate the baby's positioning during delivery.
Obstetrical forceps are often employed in situations where there is a need for expedited delivery due to complications or concerns for the health and safety of the mother or the baby. These may include prolonged labor, fetal distress, or the need to avoid further medical risks. By using the forceps, medical professionals can assist in guiding the baby's head through the birth canal, aiding its descent and minimizing potential risks.
It is crucial that obstetrical forceps be used with great care and precision, as improper usage can lead to complications such as injury to the mother or the baby. Their use is generally reserved for cases in which the benefits outweigh the risks and when there is experienced medical supervision present.
Overall, obstetrical forceps are indispensable tools in the hands of skilled healthcare professionals, allowing them to safely navigate the challenges posed during certain childbirth scenarios and ensuring the well-being of both mother and baby.
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F. Used for grasping and making traction on the fetal head in cases of dystocia; see cuts (p. 378) and also cut under Chamberlen.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for OBSTETRICAL FORCEPS
- ibstetrical forceps
- kbstetrical forceps
- lbstetrical forceps
- pbstetrical forceps
- 0bstetrical forceps
- 9bstetrical forceps
- ovstetrical forceps
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- ohstetrical forceps
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- obatetrical forceps
- obztetrical forceps
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- obdtetrical forceps
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- obwtetrical forceps
- obsretrical forceps
- obsfetrical forceps
- obsgetrical forceps
- obsyetrical forceps
Etymology of OBSTETRICAL FORCEPS
The word "obstetrical" originated from the Latin word "obstetricius" which means "pertaining to a midwife" or "pertaining to childbirth". The term "forceps" comes from the Latin word "forca" which means "a pair of tongs" or "an instrument for grasping". Therefore, the term "obstetrical forceps" refers to a pair of specialized tongs or instruments used by midwives or obstetricians during childbirth.
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