Failed forceps.

Among 53 cases of failed forceps occurring in 6524 uncomplicated primiparous deliveries, depression at birth and encephalopathy occurred with similar frequency as when cesarean section was done for failure to progress in the second stage, and birth trauma was no more common than that with successful midforceps delivery. Factors predisposing to or associated with midforceps deliveries or second stage cesarean sections were short mothers, heavy babies, induced or prolonged labors, and fetal distress or meconium release in labor.