A Simulation Model for External Cephalic Version

Abstract

Breech presentation complicates as many as 4% of all deliveries. External cephalic version (ECV) is a procedure that involves the external rotation of the fetus through the mother's abdomen from a breech position into a cephalic position. It provides a beneficial alternative to cesarean section (CS) as it is less invasive, more cost-effective, and mitigates many of the maternal health risks associated with CS. Though ECV has become more widely used in recent years, studies have shown that a large percentage of residency programs lack proper training pertaining to ECV, increasing the need for additional educational intervention. A well-supported method of procedural training that has demonstrated efficacy among trainees is the incorporation of simulation models. While many models have already been developed for various obstetrical procedures, few easily reproducible models currently exist for ECV. The purpose of this study was to develop a reconstructible ECV model that could be utilized for practice by trainees in the field of obstetrics. This study's proposed ECV model along with a lecture that was presented to residents and data on the effectiveness of the model and comfort with performing the procedure was collected and analyzed. The results demonstrated that when compared to baseline prior to training, levels of comfort with performing an ECV increased amongst trainees after practicing on the model.