Acupuncture for breech version: principles, technique, mode of action and utility--a literature review.
OBJECTIVE
Version to correct breech presentation at term remains important, because feet-first vaginal delivery of a baby is associated with a higher risk of fetal morbidity and mortality.


METHODS
The technique consists of puncture at point B67. This technique is thought to work by increasing the probability of the fetus turning by increasing active fetal movements.


RESULTS
Five randomised studies evaluating the value of acupuncture in cases of siege presentation indicate that this method tended to be effective. However, no placebo-controlled study has been carried out.


CONCLUSIONS
Acupuncture should be attempted in cases of breech presentation.
Sananès
Nicolas
N
CMCO-SIHCUS, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Schiltigheim, France. nsananes@hotmail.com
Vayssière
Christophe
C
Helmlinger
Christine
C
Viville
Brigitte
B
Kohler
Monique
M
Aïssi
Germain
G
Trieu
Ngoc-Tu
NT
Langer
Bruno
B
Favre
Romain
R
D015670:Acupuncture Therapy / Q000379:methods / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D001946:Breech Presentation / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008516:Medicine, Chinese Traditional / Q000379:methods; D011247:Pregnancy; D016896:Treatment Outcome