145k views
3 votes
In all variations of the breech presentation (complete, frank, footling), the ______ is the landmark.

1 Answer

4 votes

Final answer:

In breech presentations, the buttocks are the landmark. The infant's orientation during delivery is buttocks first, instead of the typical head-first position. Caesarian section is now the preferred method of delivery for breech presentations.

Step-by-step explanation:

In all variations of the breech presentation (complete, frank, footling), the buttocks are the landmark. This means that during delivery, instead of the head being positioned to come out first from the birth canal, the infant's buttocks and/or feet are positioned nearest to the birth canal exit. In a complete breech, the infant's legs are crossed and pointed downward, resembling a sitting position. In a frank breech presentation, the infant's legs are flexed at the hip and extended at the knees, with feet near the head.

Traditionally, vaginal delivery was more common for breech births, but now a Caesarian section is often performed to ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby. This shift in practice mainly occurred after the 1960s when surgical techniques and safety protocols for C-sections improved significantly.

User Nick Gerakines
by
9.3k points