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Updated: Apr 4, 2026

External Cephalic Version: Is it an Effective and Safe Procedure?
Published on: June 6, 2020
[Predictors of success of external cephalic version: Bi-center study]
V Dochez1, L Delbos2, J Esbelin1
1Service de gynécologie-obstétrique, CHU de Nantes, 38, boulevard Jean-Monnet, 44093 Nantes cedex 1, France.
Objectives:
In the literature, success rate of external cephalic version (ECV) is 39 to 65%. This study aims to identify potential predictors of a successful ECV.
Materials And Methods:
Retrospective bi-center study performed from January 2011 through December 2012 at Angers University Hospital and Nantes University Hospital from January 2011 through December 2011. Were identified the demographic and ultrasonography characteristics of patients and the data of the process.
Results:
One hundred and seventy-eight patients were included, 88 in Angers and 90 in Nantes; 16.3% of ECV were successful. Multiparity (OR 28.45; P<0.01) and transverse position (OR 0.63; P<0.01) are the two significant predictors. There is no significant difference found for center, operator, position of the placenta, amniotic fluid or presence of a uterine scar.
Conclusion:
The success rate in our two French university centers is much lower than that reported in the literature. Parity and transverse position are the only 2 significant predictors of ECV success.

