Schuchardt cut

The Schuchardt incision is the extended lateral episiotomy. It is performed with a scalpel. (Other episiotomies are cut with scissors.)

Execution
It starts 2–3 cm laterally from the center of the vaginal entrance and the incision continues in a slightly semi-arched manner for a total length of 6–7 cm. The vagina and the pubic part and the edge of the iliac part cross widely m. levator ani.

Suture
It often bleeds more heavily and the suture is difficult to reconstruct and heal.

Usage
The incision allows the most spacious access for demanding vaginal obstetric operations - especially for forceps delivery from higher pelvic planes. This is not a very common feat.

Related articles

 * Episiotomy
 * Birth