Podalic version
Encyclopedia
Podalic version is an obstetric procedure wherein the fetus
is turned within the womb such that one or both feet present through the cervix
during childbirth
. It is used most often in cases where the fetus lies transversely or in another abnormal position in the womb. In modern medicine, abnormal lies are increasingly delivered via Caesarean section
, though podalic version is still an option.
Podalic version has a long history spanning back to Hippocrates
. It fell out of favor over the centuries until revived by Ambroise Paré
in the 16th century.
or internal.
Fetus
A fetus is a developing mammal or other viviparous vertebrate after the embryonic stage and before birth.In humans, the fetal stage of prenatal development starts at the beginning of the 11th week in gestational age, which is the 9th week after fertilization.-Etymology and spelling variations:The...
is turned within the womb such that one or both feet present through the cervix
Cervix
The cervix is the lower, narrow portion of the uterus where it joins with the top end of the vagina. It is cylindrical or conical in shape and protrudes through the upper anterior vaginal wall...
during childbirth
Childbirth
Childbirth is the culmination of a human pregnancy or gestation period with the birth of one or more newborn infants from a woman's uterus...
. It is used most often in cases where the fetus lies transversely or in another abnormal position in the womb. In modern medicine, abnormal lies are increasingly delivered via Caesarean section
Caesarean section
A Caesarean section, is a surgical procedure in which one or more incisions are made through a mother's abdomen and uterus to deliver one or more babies, or, rarely, to remove a dead fetus...
, though podalic version is still an option.
Podalic version has a long history spanning back to Hippocrates
Hippocrates
Hippocrates of Cos or Hippokrates of Kos was an ancient Greek physician of the Age of Pericles , and is considered one of the most outstanding figures in the history of medicine...
. It fell out of favor over the centuries until revived by Ambroise Paré
Ambroise Paré
Ambroise Paré was a French surgeon. He was the great official royal surgeon for kings Henry II, Francis II, Charles IX and Henry III and is considered as one of the fathers of surgery and modern forensic pathology. He was a leader in surgical techniques and battlefield medicine, especially the...
in the 16th century.
Types
Podalic version may be externalExternal cephalic version
External cephalic version is a process by which a breech baby can sometimes be turned from buttocks or foot first to head first. It is usually performed after about 37 weeks...
or internal.