Internal podalic version was once widely used for the management of placenta praevia. In modern obstetrics, it has been replaced by caesarean section which can lead to uterine rupture in a subsequent pregnancy. However, if the foetus is dead or very small, internal podalic version still may be carried out without major complication to avoid unnecessary caesarean section in developing countries where follow up is not satisfactory and the foetal prognosis is poor.
JacobsJBWanneer de Nageboorte voorlegt (When the placenta lies in front). In: JacobsJB (eds). Vroedkundige Oefenschool (Obstetric School of Practice), 1st edn. The Netherlands: J F Vander Schueren, 1784, pp. 268–275.
