External Cephalic Version in Cases of Imminent Delivery at Preterm Gestational Ages: A Prospective Series

Abstract

Objective: When delivery of a breech fetus is required at a preterm gestational age, Cesarean delivery is often recommended. We performed a prospective patient series to assess the success rate and safety of performing external cephalic version (ECV) procedures on preterm fetuses as an alternative to Cesarean delivery. Study Design: We performed a prospective clinical series of patients who required delivery with a malpresenting fetus at a preterm gestational age. Results: ECV procedures were successful in singletons 50% of the time. No significant complications or cases of fetal mortality were documented. Conclusion: ECV at preterm gestational ages may be an appropriate approach to management in patients requiring delivery. Larger series are needed to further document success rates and risks of the procedure.