Fetal malformations associated with breech delivery. Implications for obstetric management

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Medical Genetics
• Fetal Medicine

Background:

• Breech presentation occurs in a notable percentage of deliveries.
• Congenital anomalies represent a significant concern in fetal development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the incidence of congenital anomalies in fetuses with breech presentation.
• To compare the rates of chromosomal anomalies in breech presentations with the general population.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 1,411 breech deliveries.
• Categorization of congenital anomalies into major and minor.
• Calculation of incidence rates for chromosomal anomalies.

Main Results:

• 8.2% of breech deliveries had congenital anomalies (49 major, 67 minor).
• Chromosomal anomaly incidence was 0.63% in breech fetuses, higher than the general population (0.25%).
• Most fetuses with abnormalities weighed 2,000 gm or more.

Conclusions:

• Fetuses with breech presentation have a significantly higher incidence of major congenital anomalies and chromosomal aberrations.
• Ultrasonographic assessment and chromosomal analysis are recommended in the last trimester for fetuses with breech presentation.