Definition
1. Transverse Lie is perpendicular to mother's long axis
2. Shoulder Presentation
  1. Occurs when fetus is transverse with back down
  2. Shoulder sits over pelvic inlet
Epidemiology
1. Incidence: 0.3% of singleton births
Causes
1. Prematurity
2. Placenta Previa
3. Abnormal Uterus
4. Contracted Pelvis or relaxed abdominal wall
5. Polyhydramnios
Diagnosis
1. Leopold's Maneuvers
  1. Transverse Lie should be easy to identify
2. Digital cervical exam
  1. No presenting part
Management
1. Ceserean section required in most cases
2. Indications to consider External Cephalic Version
  1. Intact membranes and no labor
  2. Back-up Transverse Lie with Cervix fully dilated
Complications
1. Uterine Rupture

Family Practice Notebook

Patients should address specific medical concerns with their physicians.

Although access to this page is not restricted, the information found here is intended for use by medical providers.

This page was written by Scott Moses, MD, last revised on 10/21/2007 and last published on 6/18/2013.

This is one of 5909 pages in the Family Practice Notebook