Fetal heart rate abnormalities during and after external cephalic version: which fetuses are at risk and how are they delivered?

摘要

Fetal heart rate abnormalities (FHR) during and after external cephalic version (ECV) are relatively frequent.They may raise concern about fetal wellbeing. Only occasionally they may lead to an emergency cesarean section. Prospective cohort study in 980 women (>34 weeks' gestation) with a singleton fetus in breech presentation. During and after external cephalic version (ECV) FHR abnormalities were recorded. Obstetric variables and delivery outcome were evaluated. Primary outcome was to identify which fetuses are at risk for FHR abnormalities. Secondary outcome was to identify a possible relationship between FHR abnormalities during and after ECV and mode of delivery and fetal distress during subsequent labor.