Symphysiotomy
Before the Caesarean section technique was available, if labor failed to progress because the head of the fetus was too large, the mother's symphysis pubis was cut and the skull of the fetus was crushed. The Caesarean section has allowed the largely safe delivery of such infants.
In remote, isolated areas, women presenting with a large baby and a small pelvis must travel great distances for medical help; a symphysiotomy has been suggested. This practice was carried out in Europe before the introduction of the Caesarean section.
Read more about this topic: Pubic Symphysis