Clinical factors to predict the outcome of external cephalic version: a metaanalysis.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the study was to systematically review the medical literature reporting on potential clinical prognosticators for the outcome of external cephalic version (ECV).

STUDY

DESIGN

Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched. Studies reporting on potential clinical prognosticators and ECV success rates that allowed construction of a 2 x 2 table were selected.

RESULTS

We detected 53 primary articles reporting on 10,149 women. Multiparity (P >/= 1.00; odds ratio [OR], 2.5; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.3-2.8), nonengagement of the breech (OR, 9.4; 95% CI, 6.3-14), a relaxed uterus (OR, 18; 95% CI, 12-29), a palpable fetal head (OR, 6.3; 95% CI, 4.3-9.2), and maternal weight less than 65 kg (OR, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.2-2.6) were predictors for successful external cephalic version.

CONCLUSION

Success of an ECV attempt is associated with clinical factors. This should be taken into account in the counseling of women prior to an ECV attempt.