[Programmed breech deliveries (author's transl)]

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Perinatal Medicine
• Maternal-Fetal Medicine

Context:

• Breech presentation complicates approximately 3-5% of deliveries.
• Historically, planned Cesarean delivery has been recommended for singleton breech presentations.
• Investigating alternative delivery methods is crucial for optimizing perinatal outcomes.

Purpose:

• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of programmed breech delivery in reducing fetal risk.
• To compare perinatal outcomes of programmed breech delivery with those of spontaneous vertex deliveries.
• To assess the impact of induced labor on fetal well-being during breech presentation.

Summary:

• A study involving 71 singleton breech deliveries induced by oxytocin was conducted.
• Apgar scores and umbilical cord pH values in programmed breech deliveries were comparable to those in 3904 vertex deliveries with spontaneous labor.
• The incidence of Cesarean section was 9.86%, and all 71 infants were mature and healthy with no perinatal deaths.

Impact:

• Programmed breech delivery significantly reduces fetal risk, making it comparable to spontaneous vertex deliveries.
• This approach offers a viable alternative to Cesarean section for breech presentations, potentially improving maternal and infant outcomes.
• The findings support the consideration of programmed breech delivery as a safe and effective management strategy.