Clinical factors to predict the outcome of external cephalic version: a metaanalysis.
OBJECTIVE
The objective of the study was to systematically review the medical literature reporting on potential clinical prognosticators for the outcome of external cephalic version (ECV).


METHODS
Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched. Studies reporting on potential clinical prognosticators and ECV success rates that allowed construction of a 2 x 2 table were selected.


RESULTS
We detected 53 primary articles reporting on 10,149 women. Multiparity (P >/= 1.00; odds ratio [OR], 2.5; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.3-2.8), nonengagement of the breech (OR, 9.4; 95% CI, 6.3-14), a relaxed uterus (OR, 18; 95% CI, 12-29), a palpable fetal head (OR, 6.3; 95% CI, 4.3-9.2), and maternal weight less than 65 kg (OR, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.2-2.6) were predictors for successful external cephalic version.


CONCLUSIONS
Success of an ECV attempt is associated with clinical factors. This should be taken into account in the counseling of women prior to an ECV attempt.
Kok
Marjolein
M
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Cnossen
Jeltsje
J
Gravendeel
Lonneke
L
van der Post
Joris
J
Opmeer
Brent
B
Mol
Ben Willem
BW
D000328:Adult; D001720:Birth Injuries / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000517:prevention & control; D001946:Breech Presentation / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D002585:Cesarean Section / Q000379:methods / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D005865:Gestational Age; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D010298:Parity; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011247:Pregnancy; D011256:Pregnancy Outcome; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D018570:Risk Assessment; D014463:Ultrasonography; D014710:Version, Fetal / Q000379:methods*; D055815:Young Adult