Prognostic parameters for successful external cephalic version.

OBJECTIVE: To improve patient consultation before external cephalic version (ECV) attempt at term by defining prognostic parameters for the success of the procedure.

METHODS: This was a prospective observational study set in a university teaching hospital. We prospectively collected demographic and obstetric data from 603 ECV attempts at our center for the period between January 1997 and June 2005. Analysis was performed by stepwise logistic regression of the demographic and obstetric parameters. The main outcome measure was success of ECV attempt.

RESULTS: Success rates were 72.3% and 46.1% for multiparas and nulliparas, respectively. Prognostic parameters associated with successful ECV were amniotic fluid index > 7 cm, multiparity, non-frank breech, non-anterior placental location, and body mass index < 25.

CONCLUSION: Prognostic parameters, particularly amniotic fluid index and multiparity, can help physicians in counseling parturients before deciding on ECV.