Objectives The purpose of this study is to compare the vacuum extractor cup application technique described by Bird vs. the technique described by Vacca on a simulation model. Methods Six obstetricians participated in the study. Each obstetrician performed eight vacuum assisted deliveries using the Bird technique and eight vacuum assisted deliveries using the Vacca 5-Steps technique. Results A total of 96 vacuum assisted deliveries were performed. The mean distance from the centre of the cup to the flexion point was 1.78±0.96 cm for the Bird technique and 1.05±0.60 cm for the Vacca technique (p<0.001). The lateral distance (over the parietal bone) was 1.16±0.69 cm for the Bird technique and 0.66±0.52 cm for the Vacca technique (p<0.001). The vertical distance (towards the frontal or occipital bone) was 1.12±1.02 cm for the Bird technique and 0.67±0.55 cm for the Vacca technique (p=0.009). In occipito anterior positions, there were no significant differences between both techniques. Conclusions The Vacca technique was better in transverse and posterior positions.
Keywords: childbirth; flexion point; labour; simulation training; vacuum.