[External cephalic version in breech presentation of fetus]

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Perinatal Medicine

Background:

• Breech presentation complicates approximately 3-5% of term deliveries.
• External cephalic version (ECV) is a procedure to externally manipulate the fetus into a cephalic presentation before labor.
• Effective ECV can reduce the rate of cesarean deliveries for breech presentation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide comprehensive information on external cephalic version.
• To review the indications, contraindications, technique, outcomes, and potential complications of ECV.

Main Methods:

• Literature review was conducted.
• Information was gathered from the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nemocnice Milosrdných bratrí, Brno.
• Key aspects of ECV, including reasons, conditions, contraindications, technique, results, and complications, were analyzed.

Main Results:

• External cephalic version is a well-established obstetric procedure.
• The review covers various facets of ECV, from patient selection to post-procedure management.
• Data on success rates and complication profiles are synthesized.

Conclusions:

• External cephalic version is a safe, simple, and inexpensive procedure.
• ECV should be integrated as a routine component in the management of breech presentations.
• Widespread adoption of ECV can improve birth outcomes and reduce operative interventions.