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Better clinical diagnosis of contraction of the transverse brim


D. Crichton

Abstract

The angle which the superior pubic rami make at the pubic symphysis is called the suprapubic angle. If the size of the suprapubic angle is less than the described norm of 1800, the transverse diameter of the pelvic brim tends to be reduced. If, in addition, the shape of the suprapubic angle is angulated (Norman style) as opposed to arched (Roman style) the available transverse diameter is significantly less than the maximal transverse diameter, and the available true conjugate is less than the maximal true conjugate. The clinical technique of measuring the suprapubic angle is described and its clinical importance emphasised.  Transverse brim contraction can be suspected by abdominal palpation. The author's method of abdominovaginal estimation of pelvic size is held to be superior to the generally accepted single-handed method.

S. Afr. Med. J., 48, 781 (1974).

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eISSN: 2078-5135
print ISSN: 0256-9574