3D Medical Animation: Shoulder Dystocia Birth Injury

[perfphysio]

This 3D medical animation of shoulder dystocia in a newborn shows a vaginal delivery with the uterus removed for greater visibility of the brachial plexus in the neck and shoulder area of the fetus. As the baby is pushed through the mother's pelvic outlet during labor, we see the infant's shoulder being trapped beneath the mother's pelvic bone (pubic symphysis) causing the nerves of the brachial plexus to be stretched and injured. This form of brachial plexus injury is called neuropraxia, and may result in symptoms including a limp or paralyzed arm; lack of muscle control in the arm, hand, or wrist; and lack of feeling or sensation in the arm or hand.