A surgical instrument formed of a rubber suction cup which is used in vacuum extraction during childbirth.
A suction cup that can be attached to the head of a fetus in order to aid delivery.
The idea of a suction cup being applied to the emerging head of the baby to assist in delivery was first considered by Younge in 1706, but it was not until 1954 that the modern (ventouse) vacuum extractor was introduced. The value of the ventouse as against forceps has been disputed in different clinics, the former being less popular in the UK. Indications are similar to those for the use of obstetric forceps. Even if the occiput is not in the anterior position, the extractor may still be applied; many obstetricians would choose forceps or perform manual rotation of the fetus in such cases.
A device for applying traction to the fetus during delivery by using a suction cup attached to the fetal head. Its use may be hazardous except in the hands of experts.