Shoulder Dystocia

Shoulder dystocia is an obstetric emergency in which the baby’s head is delivered but one or both shoulders become lodged, usually behind the mother’s pubic bone. Clinicians use recognized maneuvers to complete delivery. Complications can include brachial plexus injury, fracture, oxygen deprivation, or maternal injury. The event is not always predictable or preventable. A legal review examines risk factors, maneuvers, traction, timing, documentation, and whether the care met accepted standards.