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Unsuccessful Acupuncture Conversion of Breech Presentation
1Abteilung fur Geburtshilfe und Frauenheilkunde Unikrankenhaus Osijek, Kroatien.
Geburtshilfe Und Frauenheilkunde
|April 4, 2022
Summary
Acupuncture for breech presentation conversion failed due to cord complications, necessitating a cesarean section. This case highlights the importance of warning patients about potential risks with breech conversion methods.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Integrative Medicine
- Fetal Medicine
Background:
- Fetal malpresentation, such as breech or oblique positions, complicates labor and delivery.
- Conventional methods for breech presentation conversion exist, but success rates and risks vary.
- Acupuncture stimulation of the UB 67 acupoint is explored as a non-invasive method for fetal version.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a case of fetal oblique position with compound presentation where acupuncture conversion of breech presentation was attempted.
- To describe the management and outcome of a complicated pregnancy involving fetal malpresentation and umbilical cord issues.
- To emphasize the importance of patient counseling regarding risks associated with breech presentation conversion techniques.
Main Methods:
- Acupuncture stimulation of the UB 67 acupoint was performed in the 35th week of gestation under cardiotocography (CTG) monitoring.
- The patient experienced uterine contractions and intensified fetal activity during the initial acupuncture session.
- In the 39th week, labor commenced with regular contractions, but examination revealed a compound presentation (legs and umbilical cord) and oblique lie, necessitating cesarean delivery.
Main Results:
- Acupuncture-induced breech conversion failed due to the umbilical cord being wrapped thrice around the fetus with a knot.
- The patient delivered a healthy male neonate via cesarean section (modified Misgav-Ladach method).
- The neonate had favorable Apgar scores and blood gas parameters, indicating a good outcome despite the complications.
Conclusions:
- Complex umbilical cord entanglement and knotting can contraindicate successful external cephalic version or acupuncture-assisted conversion.
- Cesarean section remains a necessary intervention for fetal malpresentation with complications, ensuring maternal and fetal safety.
- Obstetricians must thoroughly inform patients about the potential risks and limitations of all breech presentation conversion methods.
