History Of The Obstetric Forceps And Modern Application

Abstract

Introduction: an obstetric forceps is an instrument that is used to assist vaginal delivery of the baby. Its discovery, as well as its application at birth, is associated with the Chamberlain family, who practice medicine in England in the 17-th and 18-th centuries.

Purpose: to present the historical development of the forceps as an instrument and its application in modern obstetrics.

Material and methods: a historical method and a review of literary sources have been used.

Application: the history of obstetric forceps begins in 16-th century in England. Credit for this goes to the Chamberlain brothers. The older brother, according to historians, invented the forceps, and the younger brother’s son, Hugh, continue the family tradition by actively using it during childbirth. The family members keep the secret of the instrument for 100 years. Under threat of conviction for practicing without a license, Hugh Chamberlain is forced to flee to Netherland, where he sells several copies of the instrument. At the beginning of the 18-th century, different models of forceps begin to appear, which with its modern variants reach up to 700 types. Although rare, this instrument is still used today, in 2 to 5% of vaginal births and only in emergencies.

Conclusion: regardless of its minor application in modern obstetrics, forceps appears to be life-saving for the fetus, especially in established hypoxia, immediately before delivery process. Correct application and compliance with the conditions to proceed with the application of forceps are extremely important to prevent trauma to both the mother and the newborn.