Fetal risk in hyperextension of the fetal head in breech presentation.
An evaluation of the possible etiologic factors in hyperextension of the fetal head in breech presentation and a discussion of management are presented. Our seven cases plus a review of the literature led to the conclusion that hyperextension of the aftercoming head is a dangerous malpresentation that should not be underestimated. For this reason, we strongly suggest an x-ray of all breech presentations in early labor, not only to evaluate pelvic adequacy but also to determine the attitude of the head. In persistent hyperextension, cesarean section is the management of choice.
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001946:Breech Presentation; D002585:Cesarean Section; D005260:Female; D006257:Head; D006801:Humans; D007746:Labor Presentation; D007744:Obstetric Labor Complications; D011247:Pregnancy; D012306:Risk