What is the expected delivery interval for a shoulder dystocia event to be considered prolonged?

In cases of shoulder dystocia, the definition of a prolonged delivery interval is critical for understanding how to manage the situation effectively. A prolonged delivery interval is defined as the time it takes from the time the head is delivered to the time the body is delivered. Clinically, an interval of 60 seconds or more is generally accepted as prolonged.

During a shoulder dystocia event, the risk of complications for both the fetus and the mother increases significantly if the delivery is delayed. A rapid resolution is crucial to prevent potential injuries or adverse outcomes, such as fetal asphyxia or brachial plexus injury. This time frame helps guide clinicians in their management decisions, reinforcing the importance of quick intervention.

The other intervals listed—30 seconds, 45 seconds, and 90 seconds—are not used as standard thresholds for defining prolonged delivery in this context. While shorter intervals are less concerning, an interval of 90 seconds is generally considered excessive and would indicate a critical situation requiring immediate action and intervention. Thus, classifying a 60-second interval as prolonged allows for timely and effective management in cases of shoulder dystocia.