What does the Zavanelli maneuver involve?

The Zavanelli maneuver involves pushing the fetal head back into the vagina. This technique is typically utilized in cases of shoulder dystocia when the fetal shoulders become impacted and cannot pass through the birth canal. The purpose of the maneuver is to reposition the fetus in a manner that may allow for safer delivery options, such as a cesarean section, which can be performed after repositioning. This maneuver can be critical in avoiding injury to both the mother and the infant when the shoulders cannot be delivered after the head has crowned. It underscores the importance of timely and appropriate intervention in emergencies during childbirth.