INTRAPARTUM EXTERNAL VERSION OF THE 2ND TWIN

  • 1 January 1983
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 62  (2) , 160-165
Abstract
External cephalic versions (25) were attempted on 14 transverse and 11 breech malpositioned 2nd twins. In 10 of 14 (71%) transverse presentations and 8 of 11 (73%) breech presentations, version was successful and resulted in subsequent vertex vaginal delivery. Successful version was not associated with parity, gestational age or birth weight but was associated with mode of anesthesia and disparity in twin size. Among the 25 attempted versions, 7 (28%) had 1-min and 2 (8%) had 5-min Apgar scores below 7. Analysis by birth weight and mode of delivery are presented. Time interval between delivery of twins had no association with outcome. One neonatal death occurred in a 28-wk, 1100-g infant. External version is useful in the management of the 2nd twin who has an abnormal presentation; routine cesarean section is not always necessary. Further investigation, especially at lower birth weights, is necessary to confirm the safety and efficacy of this method of management.