Which of the following is a risk associated with external cephalic version, occurring in less than 1% of cases?

Which of the following is a risk associated with external cephalic version, occurring in less than 1% of cases?

• A. Maternal hypoglycemia
• B. Uterine rupture
• C. Chorioamnionitis
• D. Hypertensive crisis

Answer: (B)

Uterine rupture is indeed a risk associated with external cephalic version, albeit in less than 1% of cases. This is particularly relevant in scenarios where the patient has had previous uterine surgery, such as a cesarean section. During an external cephalic version, the manipulations applied to the fetus may generate increased tension on the uterine wall, which could lead to rupture, especially if there are pre-existing weaknesses in the uterine muscle or scar tissue from previous surgeries. In performing an external cephalic version, the maternal-fetal safety is paramount, and while the risk of uterine rupture is rare, it is significant enough to warrant careful assessment of the patient's history and uterine integrity before proceeding with the version. In this context, understanding the implications of uterine scarring and the techniques used during the procedure is crucial for managing potential risks effectively.

Uterine rupture is indeed a risk associated with external cephalic version, albeit in less than 1% of cases. This is particularly relevant in scenarios where the patient has had previous uterine surgery, such as a cesarean section. During an external cephalic version, the manipulations applied to the fetus may generate increased tension on the uterine wall, which could lead to rupture, especially if there are pre-existing weaknesses in the uterine muscle or scar tissue from previous surgeries.

In performing an external cephalic version, the maternal-fetal safety is paramount, and while the risk of uterine rupture is rare, it is significant enough to warrant careful assessment of the patient's history and uterine integrity before proceeding with the version. In this context, understanding the implications of uterine scarring and the techniques used during the procedure is crucial for managing potential risks effectively.