Uterine torsion and fetal bradycardia associated with external cephalic version

Obstet Gynecol. 2006 Sep;108(3 Pt 2):820-2. doi: 10.1097/01.AOG.0000215997.13103.f2.

Abstract

Background: Torsion of the gravid uterus is a rare obstetric complication in humans, but has been reported in association with malpresentation and with uterine leiomyomata.

Case: We report a case of uterine torsion diagnosed at emergency cesarean delivery after external cephalic version with prolonged fetal bradycardia.

Conclusion: Physicians should be aware of the possibility of uterine torsion as a complication of external cephalic version. To minimize diagnostic delay, placental localization on ultrasonography should be noted before and after external cephalic version as an indicator of uterine orientation.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Bradycardia / etiology*
  • Breech Presentation / diagnostic imaging
  • Breech Presentation / therapy
  • Cesarean Section
  • Female
  • Fetal Diseases / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Outcome
  • Torsion Abnormality
  • Ultrasonography
  • Uterine Diseases / diagnosis
  • Uterine Diseases / etiology*
  • Version, Fetal / adverse effects*