Birth Injury Attorney Discusses 2 Types of Vacuum Extraction Devices
by
Michael F. Becker on Sep. 04, 2012
Accident & Injury Medical Malpractice Accident & Injury Personal Injury Accident & Injury
Summary: Vacuum extraction devices may be used to assist in the birthing process if a baby turns in an abnormal position, becomes stuck in the birthing canal or the mother cannot push enough to help baby out. There are two types of vacuum extraction devices doctors may use.
Vacuum extraction devices may be used to assist in the birthing process if a baby turns in an abnormal position, becomes stuck in the birthing canal or the mother cannot push enough to help baby out. There are two types of vacuum extraction devices doctors may use.
The Metal Cup
A doctor may choose a metal cup that is the right size for the baby’s head. The cups range from 40 to 60 millimeters. The doctor places the cup on the baby’s head with a handle, and a suction device attaches to the cup. The pressure from the suction pulls the baby out.
Doctors often opt for the metal cup instead of the soft cup because it is has a higher rate of success, and placement of the cup is typically easier. However, it comes with certain risks, including injury to the child’s skull. These are not often used in the United States.
The Soft Cup
Just like the metal cup, doctors place the soft cup on the baby’s head. Instead of a cup shape, it’s shaped more like a bell or cone. Doctors may use this instead of the metal cup because it’s softer and gentler on the baby’s head. However, it also has a higher failure rate than the metal cup. Risk of injuries to the head and skull is less than with the metal cup but does not disappear entirely.
Seek Legal Action for Birth Injuries
If your baby has suffered birth injury due to assisted birth with vacuum extraction, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact the birth injury attorneys at The Becker Law Firm for a free case evaluation today at 877-863-6219.
© 2025 LAWYER.COM INC.
Use of this website constitutes acceptance of Lawyer.com’s Terms of Use, Email, Phone, & Text Message and Privacy Policies.