External cephalic version (ECV) is the process by which a noncephalic fetus is rotated to cephalic by manipulation of the fetus through the maternal abdomen. Breech presentation complicates 3% to 4% of pregnancies at term[1] and is associated with a high rate of cesarean delivery.[2] Successful ECV reduces a patient’s chance for cesarean delivery. Thus, widespread use of ECV is one strategy that could reduce cesarean delivery rates, but studies show that up to 20% to 30% of eligible patients are not offered this procedure.[3],[4] OB/GYN hospitalists who are well versed in this technique can have an important role in increasing the use of external cephalic version.
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