The Burnett scoring index can be used to evaluate a pregnant woman for induction of labor. It is similar to the Bishop system (and is referred to sometimes as the modified Bishop score), but uses slightly different point assignments.
Patient selection: Multiparous women with vertex presentation (previous normal vaginal birth and cephalic engagement considered a requisite for elective induction of labor).
Parameters:
(1) dilatation of the cervix
(2) engagement of the fetus
(3) position of the cervix
(4) effacement
(5) cervical consistency
Parameter
Finding
Points
dilatation
< 1.5 cm
0
1.5 - 3.0 cm
1
>= 3.0 cm
2
engagement
station -2 or higher
0
station -1
1
station 0 or lower
2
position of cervix
posterior
0
mid
1
anterior
2
effacement
unaffected, 1.5 cm or more along cervical canal
0
intermediate, 0.6 to 1.4 cm
1
effaced 0.5 cm or less
2
consistency
firm
0
intermediate
1
soft
2
score =
= SUM(points for the 5 parameters)
Interpretation:
• minimum score: 0
• maximum score: 10
Score
Predicted Course
9, 10
respond well to induction and should deliver within 2 hours of membrane rupture
6, 7, 8
90% would deliver within 6-8 hours with minimal hazard
4, 5
significant risk present
0, 1, 2, 3
induction very hazardous to fetus
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