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Updated: Jul 5, 2026
External Cephalic Version: Is it an Effective and Safe Procedure?
Published on: June 6, 2020
Clinical factors to predict the outcome of external cephalic version: a metaanalysis
Marjolein Kok1, Jeltsje Cnossen, Lonneke Gravendeel
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Objective:
The objective of the study was to systematically review the medical literature reporting on potential clinical prognosticators for the outcome of external cephalic version (ECV).
Study Design:
Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched. Studies reporting on potential clinical prognosticators and ECV success rates that allowed construction of a 2 x 2 table were selected.
Results:
We detected 53 primary articles reporting on 10,149 women. Multiparity (P >/= 1.00; odds ratio [OR], 2.5; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.3-2.8), nonengagement of the breech (OR, 9.4; 95% CI, 6.3-14), a relaxed uterus (OR, 18; 95% CI, 12-29), a palpable fetal head (OR, 6.3; 95% CI, 4.3-9.2), and maternal weight less than 65 kg (OR, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.2-2.6) were predictors for successful external cephalic version.
Conclusion:
Success of an ECV attempt is associated with clinical factors. This should be taken into account in the counseling of women prior to an ECV attempt.
