Finley May

“The Hull and East Yorkshire NHS Trust has abandoned the use of Keilland's forceps since [the deceased]'s death and evidence was heard that other NHS trusts have also done so, Nevertheless, some have retained them.”

“Evidence was heard that the use of these obstetric forceps can facilitate delivery from the mid-pelvis in cases of malrotation, asynclitism and where the lie is occipito- transverse or occipito-posterior, and this is a well-accepted practice.”

“Evidence was heard that such malpositions can be corrected manually, or by the use of the Ventouse suction apparatus, but the evidence adduced was that these alternative techniques may be inferior to the use of Keilland's forceps in skilled and practiced hands; this might mean increased risk to both mother and baby.”

“Continued use of Keilland's forceps may be the most appropriate way to manage this obstetric problem but there should be increased awareness of complications associated with its use and guidance issued about the minimum number of cases per annum needed to maintain skill levels coupled with guidance for training.”

“If NHS trusts have abandoned the use of Keilland's forceps, clear guidance should exist about alternative methods of managing malrotation and asynclitism.”