The study for the effectiveness of External Cephalic Version for Breech Presentation at Term Pregnancy in Quetta, Pakistan

Author(s) : Khadija Saif, Sakina Naeem, Nosheen Sikandar Baloch & Safia Ewaz Ali

Abstract:

DOI:https://doi.org/10.52587/njmhs.v4i2.35

Abstract
Objective:
Breech presentation is a common complication during pregnancy that increases the risk of fetal morbidity and mortality during vaginal delivery compared to caesarean section. To reduce the number of caesarean sections and associated complications, external cephalic version (ECV) is recommended. The objective of this cross-sectional study was to determine the success rate of ECV in uncomplicated singleton breech presentation at term.
Material and Methods:
The study was conducted on 85 patients at Gynae-unit I, SPH/ Bolan Medical Complex Hospital, Quetta, Pakistan. The success rate of ECV was found to be 42.4%, while the failure rate was 57.6%. Multigravida had a higher success rate (80.6%). Complications such as fetal distress, ruptured membranes, placental abruption, and emergency cesarean section occurred in a small percentage of cases.
Results:
According to study, the success rate was 42.4% and failure rate was 57.6%. Multigravida shows higher success rate (80.6%). In one patient (1.2%) emergency cesarean section was done due to abruption placenta, that occur in (1.2%) after the successive version, and in 4.7% cases fetal bradycardia was seen, which was transient, that resolved spontaneously. No complication seen after failed ECV.
Conclusion:
The study concludes that ECV is an effective and safe procedure in reducing the incidence of breech presentation at term with a low risk of complications. Maternal age and multiparity are associated with a higher success rate, and the procedure is simple to learn and perform. Properly counseled women are satisfied with the procedure, and well-equipped obstetrics units should routinely offer the procedure in selected cases during term pregnancies.

Keywords: Abruption placenta, Breech presentation, External cephalic version, Term pregnancy