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Published on: January 12, 2018
Malpresentations--impact on mode of delivery
Mikael Gardberg1, Yana Leonova, Eero Laakkonen
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vaasa Central Hospital, Vaasa, Finland. mikael.gardberg@vshp.fi
Fetal malpresentation, such as persistent occipitoposterior position, often leads to interventions. This study found malpresentation increased cesarean or instrumental delivery risks, particularly for first-time mothers.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Perinatal Medicine
- Reproductive Health
Background:
- Fetal malpresentation is a significant cause of labor dystocia and obstetric interventions.
- Persistent occipitoposterior position is a common type of cephalic malpresentation.
- Malpresentation necessitates careful management to optimize maternal and fetal outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence and impact of fetal malpresentation on delivery outcomes.
- To determine the association between malpresentation and the need for cesarean or instrumental vaginal delivery.
- To explore the role of primiparity in the occurrence and management of fetal malpresentations.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 11,957 singleton deliveries between 1995 and 2004.
- Categorization of malpresentations including breech, persistent occipitoposterior, face, brow, and transverse lie.
- Calculation of odds ratios (OR) for cesarean section and instrumental delivery in relation to malpresentation and parity.
Main Results:
- Malpresentation occurred in 8.6% of deliveries, with persistent occipitoposterior position being the most common (5.2%).
- Breech presentation (OR 14.89) and persistent occipitoposterior position (OR 4.57) significantly increased cesarean section risk.
- Primiparous women had higher malpresentation risks (OR 1.68) and required more interventions (cesarean OR 1.92, instrumental OR 2.89).
Conclusions:
- Fetal malpresentation is a common complication associated with increased rates of cesarean and instrumental deliveries.
- Persistent occipitoposterior position and breech presentation are key malpresentations driving intervention rates.
- Primiparity is an independent risk factor for malpresentation and subsequent operative delivery, highlighting the need for tailored obstetric care.
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