The 'occiput-spine angle': a new sonographic index of fetal head deflexion during the first stage of labor

摘要

BACKGROUND: Fetal head "attitude" (relationship of fetal head to spine) in the first stage of labor may have a substantial impact on labor outcome. The diagnosis of fetal head deflexion traditionally is based on digital examination in labor, although the use of ultrasound to support clinical diagnosis has been recently reported.