[Preterm breech before 35 weeks of gestation: What is the influence of the delivery route on neonatal condition?].

OBJECTIVE

The mode of delivery for preterm breech is still controversial, while no randomized study has been completed. The question of a protective effect of cesarean section on neonatal outcome arises. The objective of this study was to compare mortality and neonatal morbidity for children born before 35 weeks of gestation in breech presentation, depending on the route of delivery.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study done in University Hospital type 3 over five years, comparing neonatal mortality and different neonatal morbidity criteria for children born between 25 weeks of gestation and 34 weeks+6 days spread into two groups according to their mode of delivery: elective caesarean section before labor and vaginal delivery. Statistical analysis was performed with an adjustment for gestational age and weight of the newborn.

RESULTS

No significant difference between the two groups was found with regard to neonatal mortality. Among the various morbidity criteria studied, only the head entrapment rate and serious traumatic injury occurrence were significantly increased in the "intent to vaginal delivery" group. pH at birth and Apgar scores at five minutes were not significantly different between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

This work shows an increased risk of traumatic complications for vaginal delivery with no increase in other neonatal complications. It seems reasonable in this particular context to allow an attempt at vaginal delivery on condition of strict compliance with safety regulations relating to breech delivery.