Pelvimetry by magnetic resonance imaging in breech presentation

Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1990 Oct;163(4 Pt 1):1256-60. doi: 10.1016/0002-9378(90)90702-9.

Abstract

Evaluation of the pelvis by pelvimetry plays an important role in selecting patients with term breech presentation for possible vaginal delivery. X-ray pelvimetry involves the disadvantage of fetal exposure to ionizing radiation. Computed tomography reduces the amount of radiation markedly, but there is still a risk. Ten patients with breech presentation at term underwent antepartum pelvimetry with magnetic resonance imaging, following by postpartum magnetic resonance pelvimetry and x-ray pelvimetry. Measurements with magnetic resonance imaging are as reliable as those obtained with x-ray pelvimetry and the contrast of the magnetic resonance images is even better. The advantages of magnetic resonance pelvimetry are clear: no ionizing radiation and reliable pelvimetry results in cases of term breech presentation in which a normal pelvis is a prerequisite for safe vaginal delivery.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Breech Presentation*
  • Evaluation Studies as Topic
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging*
  • Pelvimetry* / methods
  • Pregnancy