A randomized trial of epidural anesthesia to improve external cephalic version success

Objective: This study was designed to determine whether epidural anesthesia would improve external cephalic version success in a safe and effective manner. Study Design: All women >37 weeks' gestation with breech presentation scheduled for external cephalic version at the medical center from...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:American journal of obstetrics and gynecology 1997-11, Vol.177 (5), p.1133-1137
Main Authors: Schorr, Stephen J., Speights, Steven E., Ross, Elaine L., Bofill, James A., Rust, Orion A., Norman, Patricia F., Morrison, John C.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adult
Anesthesia, Epidural
Anesthesia, Obstetrical
Biological and medical sciences
Breech
Breech Presentation
cesarean delivery
Delivery. Postpartum. Lactation
epidural anesthesia
external cephalic version
Female
Gynecology. Andrology. Obstetrics
Humans
Medical sciences
obstetric anesthesia
Obstetrical techniques
Pregnancy
Prospective Studies
Version, Fetal
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Summary:Objective: This study was designed to determine whether epidural anesthesia would improve external cephalic version success in a safe and effective manner. Study Design: All women >37 weeks' gestation with breech presentation scheduled for external cephalic version at the medical center from Dec. 1, 1993, to July 31, 1996, were randomized to receive an epidural or no epidural anesthesia. Under ultrasonographic guidance up to three version attempts were performed. Results: Sixty-nine women were randomized to receive epidural ( n = 35) versus no epidural ( n = 34) anesthesia for external cephalic version. There were no statistically significant differences in maternal age, parity, maternal weight, gestational age, estimated fetal weight, or station of the presenting part. The success rate was better for the epidural group (relative risk 2.12, 95% confidence interval 1.24 to 3.62). Neither anterior placentation or oligohydramnios affected the success rate. Conclusion: Epidural anesthesia increases success of external cephalic version without any apparent detrimental effect on the maternal-fetal unit.
ISSN:0002-9378
1097-6868
DOI:10.1016/S0002-9378(97)70029-2