[Term-breech presentation: predictive factors of cesarean section for vaginal-birth failure]

In our maternity ward, vaginal-breech birth is favoured when the protocol for patient's eligibility is respected. But in our practice, 20% patients have a cesarean section during labor for vaginal-birth failure, with a higher rate of neonatal and maternal morbidities. This study tried to consider if some obstetrical elements, not usually used, could help select the candidates in a more efficient way.

This retrospective study included all the singleton-breech deliveries with a gestational age over 37 weeks in our maternity ward from 1994 to 2004. An analysis of obstetrical elements, available before and during labour, has been carried out.

Three hundred and seventy-six deliveries were indexed for a vaginal-birth trial. We carried out a cesarean section in 21.3% cases. We have found five obstetrical elements, not used in the vaginal birth protocol, which were significant risk factors for a cesarean section: nulliparity (OR=0.25 [0.11-0.57]), maternal height (OR=0.56 [0.30-1.03]), ultrasound estimated fetal weight (OR=7.76 [2.29-26.28]), fundal height (OR=3.9 [2.41-8.62]) and dystocia in first stage of labour (OR=4.97 [2.67-9.25]).

A cesarean section during labor is responsible for a high-morbidity rate. We have to reduce this obstetrical event, especially in breech presentation, by a better selection of patients. From this study, we have created a statistical model to screen patients, but we have to lead a prospective study to validate it.