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Updated: Apr 1, 2026
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External Cephalic Version: Is it an Effective and Safe Procedure?
Published on: June 6, 2020
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Predictors for a successful external cephalic version: a single centre experience
Florian Ebner1, Thomas W P Friedl2, Elena Leinert2
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Ulm, Prittwitzstr. 43, 89075, Ulm, Germany. florian.ebner@uniklinik-ulm.de.
Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics
|October 7, 2015
Summary
External cephalic version (ECV) is a safe procedure for breech pregnancies. Increased amniotic fluid and prior vaginal births predict successful ECV, improving informed consent for expectant mothers.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Background:
- External cephalic version (ECV) is a key option for breech pregnancies.
- Predictors for successful ECV have been previously identified.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze predictors of successful external cephalic version (ECV).
- To evaluate the safety and success rates of ECV in breech presentations.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective multivariate analysis of 444 patients undergoing ECV.
- ECV offered after 36 weeks gestation with contraindications noted.
- Analysis included amniotic fluid index, prior vaginal delivery, and estimated fetal weight.
Main Results:
- ECV success rate was 28% (33 out of 118 attempts).
- Increased Amniotic Fluid Index (AFI), prior vaginal delivery, and high estimated fetal weight were significant predictors of success.
- No deliveries occurred within 48 hours post-ECV, indicating safety.
Conclusions:
- External cephalic version (ECV) is a safe procedure for breech pregnancies.
- Informed consent is crucial when offering ECV.
- Maternal factors like multi-parity and fetal factors like increased amniotic fluid aid in predicting ECV success.
