BREECH DELIVERY - THE VALUE OF X-RAY PELVIMETRY

Objective: The study was conducted to compare maternal and neonatal ou tcome of two groups of nulliparae with breech presentations, who were selected for vaginal delivery by protocols differing only in their use of X-ray pelvimetry. Study Design: We reviewed all term singleton bre ech deliveries of nulliparous patients who were eligible for vaginal t rial of labour in our Centre between 1992 and 1994. In Group A (n = 85 ) X-ray pelvimetry was performed, and in Group B (n = 70) it was not. Obstetric management was otherwise similar. Admission to the two depar tments was on alternate days. Results: The rate of caesarean section w as similar in both groups (Group A, 36.4% vs. Group B, 42.8% P > 0.05) , however, the indications for caesarean section differed. Neonatal ou tcome was similar in both groups. Maternal febrile morbidity was highe r in Group B patients, especially those who underwent caesarean sectio n after a trial of labour. Conclusion: X-ray pelvimetry in nulliparae with breech presentation is associated with reduced maternal febrile m orbidity, but does not improve neonatal outcome. (C) 1998 Elsevier Sci ence Ireland Ltd.