Resultados obstétricos y perinatales de la implementación de un programa de versión externa cefálica

Abstract

Objectives To evaluate the effectiveness of the external cephalic version, the time required for its completion, the safety of the technique, its effectiveness in reducing the rate of caesarean sections and the perinatal outcomes. Methods The study included 180 pregnant women with pelvic presentation at term. Routine cardiotocographic monitoring and an ultrasound were used pre-and post-release version for foetal welfare and presentation. Results Success was achieved in 30% of the external cephalic version (ECV) cases during the first year, while 61.90% was successfully achieved during the fourth year. Vaginal births accounted for 61 out of the 93 successful versions, the spontaneous reversal rate was 5.37% and the spontaneous version rate following failed external version, was 3.44%. In 45 cases (25%) some kind of minor adverse effect was found and in 18 cases it was due to the use of uterine relaxants. Conclusions The ECV is safe and useful for reducing caesarean rates. The experience of the obstetrician who performed the technique plays a key role in ensuring success.