Utilization of epidural volume extension technique for external cephalic version

Abstract

External cephalic version (ECV) has been successfully utilized to reduce breech presentations at term and offers an alternative to elective cesarean delivery. Unfortunately, there is not a consensus on which type of regional anesthesia conveys the highest chances for a successful ECV. This case report describes the use of the epidural volume extension technique to provide surgical anesthesia for ECV with a reduced dose of local anesthetic, with the goals of minimizing motor block and hypotension in the setting of an outpatient procedure.

Keywords:

• Epidural volume extension
• external cephalic version
• obstetric anesthesia
• regional anesthesia

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The authors acknowledge University of Alabama Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine for their support for this case report.