ST analysis of the fetal electrocardiogram during labor: Nordic observational multicenter study

Changing Perspectives of Electronic Fetal Monitoring

The delivery of healthy babies is the primary goal of obstetric care. Many technologies have been developed to reduce both maternal and fetal risks for poor outcomes. For 50 years, electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) has been used extensively in labor attempting to prevent a large proportion of neonatal encephalopathy and cerebral palsy. However, even key opinion leaders admit that EFM has mostly failed to achieve this goal. We believe this situation emanates from a fundamental misunderstanding of differences between screening and diagnostic tests, considerable subjectivity and inter-observer variability in EFM interpretation, failure to address the pathophysiology of fetal compromise, and a tunnel vision focus. To address these suboptimal results, several iterations of increasingly sophisticated analyses have intended to improve the situation. We believe that part of the continuing problem is that the focus of EFM has been too narrow ignoring important contextual issues such as maternal, fetal, and obstetrical risk factors, and increased uterine contraction frequency. All of these can significantly impact the application of EFM to intrapartum care. We have recently developed a new clinical approach, the Fetal Reserve Index (FRI), contextualizing EFM interpretation. Our data suggest the FRI is capable of providing higher accuracy and earlier detection of emerging fetal compromise. Over time, artificial intelligence/machine learning approaches will likely improve measurements and interpretation of FHR characteristics and other relevant variables. Such future developments will allow us to develop more comprehensive models that increase the interpretability and utility of interfaces for clinical decision making during the intrapartum period.

Fetal ECG signal processing and identification of hypoxic pregnancy conditions in-utero

The fetal heart rate (fHR) variability and fetal electrocardiogram (fECG) are considered the most important sources of information about fetal wellbeing. Non-invasive fetal monitoring and analysis of fECG are paramount for clinical trials. They enable examining the fetal health status and detecting the heart rate changes associated with insufficient oxygenation to cut the likelihood of hypoxic fetal injury. Despite the fact that significant advances have been achieved in electrocardiography and adult ECG signal processing, the analysis of fECG is still in its infancy. Due to accurate fetal morphology extraction techniques have not been properly developed, many areas require particular attention on the way of fully understanding the changes in variability in the fetus and implementation of the non-invasive techniques suitable for remote home care which is increasingly in demand for high-risk pregnancy monitoring. In this paper, we introduce an integrated approach for fECG signal extraction and processing based on various methods for fetal welfare investigation and hypoxia risk estimation. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first attempt to introduce the auto-generated risk scoring in fECG to achieve early warning on fetus' safety and provide the physician with additional information about the possible fetal complications. The proposed method includes the following stages: fECG extraction, fHR and fetal heart rate variability (fHRV) calculation, hypoxia index (HI) evaluation and risk estimation. The extracted signals were examined by assessing Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR) and mean square error (MSE) values. The results obtained demonstrated great potential, but more profound research and validation, as well as a consistent clinical study, are needed before implementation into the hospital and at-home monitoring.

A novel modular fetal ECG STAN and HRV analysis: Towards robust hypoxia detection

This paper introduces a comprehensive fetal Electrocardiogram (fECG) Signal Extraction and Analysis Virtual Instrument that integrates various methods for detecting the R-R Intervals (RRIs) as a means to determine the fetal Heart Rate (fHR) and therefore facilitates fetal Heart Rate Variability (HRV) signal analysis. Moreover, it offers the capability to perform advanced morphological fECG signal analysis called ST segment Analysis (STAN) as it seamlessly allows the determination of the T-wave to QRS complex ratio (also called T/QRS) in the fECG signal. The integration of these signal processing and analytical modules could help clinical researchers and practitioners to noninvasively monitor and detect the life threatening hypoxic conditions that may arise in different stages of pregnancy and more importantly during delivery and could therefore lead to the reduction of unnecessary C-sections. In our experiments we used real recordings from a Fetal Scalp Electrode (FSE) as well as maternal abdominal electrodes. This Virtual Instrument (Toolbox) not only serves as a desirable platform for comparing various fECG extraction signal processing methods, it also provides an effective means to perform STAN and HRV signal analysis based on proven ECG morphological as well as Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) indices to detect hypoxic conditions.

A new method to derive fetal heart rate from maternal abdominal electrocardiogram: monitoring fetal heart rate during cesarean section

Background

Monitoring of fetal heart rate (FHR) is important during labor since it is a sensitive marker to obtain significant information about fetal condition. To take immediate response during cesarean section (CS), we noninvasively derive FHR from maternal abdominal ECG.

Methods

We recruited 17 pregnant women delivered by elective cesarean section, with abdominal ECG obtained before and during the entire CS. First, a QRS-template is created by averaging all the maternal ECG heart beats. Then, Hilbert transform was applied to QRS-template to generate the other basis which is orthogonal to the QRS-template. Second, maternal QRS, P and T waves were adaptively subtracted from the composited ECG. Third, Gabor transformation was applied to obtain time-frequency spectrogram of FHR. Heart rate variability (HRV) parameters including standard deviation of normal-to-normal intervals (SDNN), 0V, 1V, 2V derived from symbolic dynamics of HRV and SD1, SD2 derived from Poincareé plot. Three emphasized stages includes: (1) before anesthesia, (2) 5 minutes after anesthesia and (3) 5 minutes before CS delivery.

Results

FHRs were successfully derived from all maternal abdominal ECGs. FHR increased 5 minutes after anesthesia and 5 minutes before delivery. As for HRV parameters, SDNN increased both 5 minutes after anesthesia and 5 minutes before delivery (21.30±9.05 vs. 13.01±6.89, P < 0.001 and 22.88±12.01 vs. 13.01±6.89, P < 0.05). SD1 did not change during anesthesia, while SD2 increased significantly 5 minutes after anesthesia (27.92±12.28 vs. 16.18±10.01, P < 0.001) and both SD2 and 0V percentage increased significantly 5 minutes before delivery (30.54±15.88 vs. 16.18±10.01, P < 0.05; 0.39±0.14 vs. 0.30±0.13, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

We developed a novel method to automatically derive FHR from maternal abdominal ECGs and proved that it is feasible during CS.

Vibroacoustic stimulation for fetal assessment in labour in the presence of a nonreassuring fetal heart rate trace

BACKGROUND

Fetal vibroacoustic stimulation (VAS) is a simple, non-invasive technique where a device is placed on the maternal abdomen over the region of the fetal head and sound is emitted at a predetermined level for several seconds. It is hypothesised that the resultant startle reflex in the fetus and subsequent fetal heart rate (FHR) acceleration or transient tachycardia following VAS provide reassurance of fetal well-being. This technique has been proposed as a tool to assess fetal well-being in the presence of a nonreassuring cardiotocographic (CTG) trace during the first and second stages of labour.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the clinical effectiveness and safety of VAS in the assessment of fetal well-being during labour, compared with mock or no stimulation for women with a singleton pregnancy exhibiting a nonreassuring FHR pattern.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (6 September 2012) and reference lists of all retrieved articles. We sought unpublished trials and abstracts submitted to major international congresses and contacted expert informants.

SELECTION CRITERIA

All published and unpublished randomised trials that compared maternal and fetal/neonatal/infant outcomes when VAS was used to evaluate fetal status in the presence of a nonreassuring CTG trace during labour, compared with mock or no stimulation.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently sought to assess for inclusion all the potential studies we identified as a result of the search strategy. We planned to resolve any disagreement through discussion or, if required, to consult a third person. Where there was uncertainty about a particular study, we attempted to contact study authors for additional information. However, these attempts were unsuccessful.

MAIN RESULTS

The search strategies yielded six studies for consideration of inclusion. However, none of these studies fulfilled the requirements for inclusion in this review.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There are currently no randomised controlled trials that address the safety and efficacy of VAS used to assess fetal well-being in labour in the presence of a nonreassuring CTG trace. Although VAS has been proposed as a simple, non-invasive tool for assessment of fetal well-being, there is insufficient evidence from randomised trials on which to base recommendations for use of VAS in the evaluation of fetal well-being in labour in the presence of a nonreassuring CTG trace.

Clinically accurate fetal ECG parameters acquired from maternal abdominal sensors

OBJECTIVE

We sought to evaluate the accuracy of a novel system for measuring fetal heart rate (FHR) and ST-segment changes using noninvasive electrodes on the maternal abdomen.

STUDY DESIGN

Fetal electrocardiograms were recorded using abdominal sensors from 32 term laboring women who had a fetal scalp electrode (FSE) placed for a clinical indication.

RESULTS

Good-quality data for FHR estimation were available in 91.2% of the FSE segments and 89.9% of the abdominal electrode segments. The root mean square error between the FHR data calculated by both methods over all processed segments was 0.36 beats per minute. ST deviation from the isoelectric point ranged from 0-14.2% of R-wave amplitude. The root mean square error between the ST change calculated by both methods averaged over all processed segments was 3.2%.

CONCLUSION

FHR and ST change acquired from the maternal abdomen is highly accurate and, on average, is clinically indistinguishable from FHR and ST change calculated using FSE data.

ST segment analysis as an adjunct to electronic fetal monitoring, Part I: background, physiology, and interpretation

Fetal electrocardiogram (ECG) ST segment analysis (STAN) was approved in 2005 in the United States as an adjunct to electronic fetal heart rate monitoring to determine whether obstetrical intervention is warranted when there is an increased risk for developing metabolic acidosis. STAN has utility in the reduction of fetal acidosis at birth, decreased need for fetal scalp blood sampling during labor, and decreased need for operative vaginal delivery and emergency cesarean delivery for fetal indications. This article discusses specific fetal ECG changes and their significance and the use of the STAN system.

ST segment analysis (STAN) as an adjunct to electronic fetal monitoring, Part II: clinical studies and future directions

The Part 1 article focused on the physiology and general system for interpretation of ST segment analysis (STAN) systems. This article focuses on prior clinical studies of STAN and future research directions.

ST analysis of fetal electrocardiography in labor

Since its introduction more than 40 years ago, electronic fetal monitoring has become widely used for intrapartum surveillance to determine fetal wellbeing in labor. Although fetal hypoxia and acidosis are reflected in changes in fetal heart rate, there is no evidence that cardiotocography has been effective in reducing neonatal morbidity related to fetal distress occurring during labor. Indeed the specificity of this tool is poor and in many instances the incorporation of electronic fetal monitoring into intrapartum care has merely led to an increase in medical intervention rather than an improvement in neonatal outcome. Fetal electrocardiography (ECG) analysis provides an additional method for assessing the response of the fetus to hypoxia and in particular to the development of metabolic acidosis. ST changes in the fetal ECG can be quantified with computational analysis, reducing subjective interpretation that has been problematic with traditional electronic fetal monitoring. Formal algorithms indicating appropriate points for intervention in labor have been designed. The fetal ECG has been shown to be a useful adjunct to traditional electronic fetal monitoring in several randomized controlled trials with evidence of reduced rates of neonatal encephalopathy and reduced rates of obstetric intervention.

A randomised clinical trial of intrapartum fetal monitoring with computer analysis and alerts versus previously available monitoring

Background

Intrapartum fetal hypoxia remains an important cause of death and permanent handicap and in a significant proportion of cases there is evidence of suboptimal care related to fetal surveillance. Cardiotocographic (CTG) monitoring remains the basis of intrapartum surveillance, but its interpretation by healthcare professionals lacks reproducibility and the technology has not been shown to improve clinically important outcomes. The addition of fetal electrocardiogram analysis has increased the potential to avoid adverse outcomes, but CTG interpretation remains its main weakness. A program for computerised analysis of intrapartum fetal signals, incorporating real-time alerts for healthcare professionals, has recently been developed. There is a need to determine whether this technology can result in better perinatal outcomes.

Methods/design

This is a multicentre randomised clinical trial. Inclusion criteria are: women aged ≥ 16 years, able to provide written informed consent, singleton pregnancies ≥ 36 weeks, cephalic presentation, no known major fetal malformations, in labour but excluding active second stage, planned for continuous CTG monitoring, and no known contra-indication for vaginal delivery. Eligible women will be randomised using a computer-generated randomisation sequence to one of the two arms: continuous computer analysis of fetal monitoring signals with real-time alerts (intervention arm) or continuous CTG monitoring as previously performed (control arm). Electrocardiographic monitoring and fetal scalp blood sampling will be available in both arms. The primary outcome measure is the incidence of fetal metabolic acidosis (umbilical artery pH < 7.05, BD_ecf > 12 mmol/L). Secondary outcome measures are: caesarean section and instrumental vaginal delivery rates, use of fetal blood sampling, 5-minute Apgar score < 7, neonatal intensive care unit admission, moderate and severe neonatal encephalopathy with a marker of hypoxia, perinatal death, rate of internal monitoring, tracing quality, and signal loss. Analysis will follow an intention to treat principle. Incidences of primary and secondary outcomes will be compared between groups. Assuming a reduction in metabolic acidosis from 2.8% to 1.8%, using a two-sided test with alpha = 0.05, power = 0.80, and 10% loss to follow-up, 8133 women need to be randomised.

Discussion

This study will provide evidence of the impact of intrapartum monitoring with computer analysis and real-time alerts on the incidence of adverse perinatal outcomes, intrapartum interventions and signal quality. (Current controlled trials ISRCTN42314164)

ST analysis as an adjunct to electronic fetal monitoring: an overview

Conventional electronic fetal monitoring in the United States has value as a screening tool but is extremely limited as a diagnostic tool. ST analysis was developed as an adjunctive technology, able to measure changes in the ST segment of the fetal electrocardiogram during periods of hypoxia, improving the identification of the fetus at risk for metabolic acidemia at birth. Currently used only in a handful of hospitals in the United States, studies abroad have demonstrated that an integrated approach utilizing electronic fetal monitoring, ST analysis, and standardized guidelines in a selected patient population can improve neonatal outcome, decrease acidemia at birth, and decrease obstetric operative delivery. Research is needed to determine whether similar results are possible in the US population.

STAN® S21 fetal heart monitor for fetal surveillance during labor: an observational study in 637 patients

OBJECTIVE

To assess the value of the STAN fetal heart monitor for intrapartum fetal monitoring using cardiotocography (CTG) and fetal electrocardiography (ECG).

DESIGN

Prospective observational study.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Between August 2000 and November 2002, 637 high-risk labors were monitored using a STAN S21 fetal heart monitor, providing CTG plus automatic ST analysis of the fetal ECG. Guidelines with recommendations about when to intervene were available. During the study period labor-ward personnel were systematically instructed about the (patho)-physiology of asphyxia and CTG and ST changes during labor.

RESULTS

Four hundred and forty-nine recordings were available for analysis of outcome in relation to ST changes. In 61 cases, ST changes requiring intervention occurred > 10 min before birth. In 35 (57%) of these cases, umbilical artery blood pH at delivery was < 7.15. Eighteen (4.0%) neonates were born with metabolic acidosis (umbilical artery pH < 7.05 and extracellular base deficit > 12 mmol/l). Significant ST changes (18-31 min before birth) were present in all five cases with pH < 7.00 and in six of the 13 cases with pH of 7.00-7.04 (false-negative rate 1.6%). Neonatal follow-up showed no adverse outcome. One hundred and ninety-two fetal blood samples (121 in the first stage and 71 in the second stage of labor) were taken from 142 women. Fetal scalp blood pH was < 7.15 in ten samples, 7.15-7.19 in 11 samples, 7.20-7.24 in 30 samples and > or =7.25 in 141 samples. ST changes occurred in eight (80%), six (55%), nine (30%) and 15 (11%) of these cases, respectively. In 188 (29.5%) women, outcome could not be analyzed in relation to ST changes because of inadequate recording (time between end of recording and delivery > 20 min or poor signal quality) or the absence of umbilical cord gases. In this group, four (2.1%) neonates with metabolic acidosis were born. In three of these cases the fetal ECG signal was of was poor quality and in one case the recording had ended 60 min before birth.

CONCLUSION

ST changes were present in all five cases with severe metabolic acidosis (umbilical artery pH < 7.00). ST changes occurred in 46% of cases with mild metabolic acidosis. CTG plus ST analysis was more specific in detecting fetal acidemia than CTG alone.

Probing the fetal cardiac signal for antecedents of brain injury

Obstetric care providers and researchers have long relied on analysis of the fetal heart rate tracing for insight into the fetal neurologic status. Although a normal fetal heart rate tracing does provide reassurance of intact neurologic function, an abnormal pattern is a very poor predictor of newborn brain injury. Indeed, if the clinical end point of interest is cerebral palsy, a non-reassuring fetal heart rate tracing has a 99% false positive rate. More recent analyses of fetal heart rate variability and fetal ECG waveforms, however, hold promise for improved diagnostic accuracy.

Implementation of new medical techniques: Experience from the Swedish randomized controlled trial on fetal ECG during labor

BACKGROUND

In a large Swedish multicenter randomized controlled trial (RCT) on intra partum fetal monitoring with automatic analysis of fetal ECG waveform (STAN) in combination with cardiotocography (CTG) (4966 parturients, 300 obstetricians and midwives managing the patients), interim analysis revealed protocol violations. By a post hoc analysis of the results over time, factors affecting the acceptance of the new technique were analyzed.

METHODS

The rates of primary and secondary outcome measures (fetal outcome, operative deliveries) were compared in the two study groups (CTG + ST and CTG only). Changes over time were statistically evaluated using a test for homogeneity between the two periods.

RESULTS

After retraining, the CTG + ST group showed the lowest rates of operative delivery for fetal distress, fetal blood sampling and admissions to neonatal intensive care unit. Operative deliveries (p = 0.02) and the number of fetal blood sampling decreased significantly over time (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Training and education probably predisposed the clinicians to a change and reinforced it when it occurred as a result of increased personal experience. The audit and feedback together with the influence of opinion leaders and inter-collegial interactions seem to have been of importance for the successively increasing acceptance of the new method during the RCT.

INTRAPARTUM ST ANALYSIS

The last century has seen dramatic developments in medical care as technological advances have been applied to both diagnosis and treatment. Some areas of obstetrics have been slow to benefit from these advances – and none more so than the care of the fetus in labour.

Change in heart rate variability in relation to a significant ST-event associates with newborn metabolic acidosis

OBJECTIVE

To find whether low-to-high frequency (LF/HF) ratio of fetal heart rate (FHR) variability changes in relation to a significant ST-event during delivery, and if the change is predictive of metabolic acidosis of the newborn.

DESIGN

A case-control study.

SETTING

Data from a multicentre project.

SUBJECTS

Acidotic and control fetuses with abnormal cardiotocography together with a ST-event in fetal electrocardiogram (ECG).

METHODS

We studied intrapartum FHR variability with spectral analysis from 34 fetuses with a significant ST-event in the fetal ECG. LF/HF ratio of FHR variability was measured within a period of 1 hour before and 1 hour after a significant ST-event. Sensitivity and specificity of the change in LF/HF ratio of FHR variability in prediction of metabolic acidosis (pH < or = 7.05 and base deficit value > 12.0 mmol/l) of the newborn were described by means of the receiver operating characteristic curve.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Change in LF/HF ratio of FHR in relation to a significant ST-event.

RESULTS

We found that a relative change in LF/HF ratio greater than 30% in relation to a significant ST-event predicted cord arterial metabolic acidosis with a sensitivity of 89% (95% CI 68-100%) and specificity of 80% (95% CI 64-96%).

CONCLUSIONS

Relative changes in LF/HF ratio of FHR variability in relation to a significant ST-event are more pronounced in fetuses born with metabolic acidosis.

Use of Fetal Electrocardiogram for Intrapartum Monitoring

Introduction: Intrapartum fetal monitoring is essential for the identification of fetal hypoxia to reduce perinatal morbidity and mortality. Cardiotocography is associated with low specificity for fetal acidosis and poor perinatal outcome leading to unnecessary operative deliveries. ST waveform analysis of the fetal electrocardiogram has been shown to be a promising adjunctive intrapartum assessment tool. We aim to present the pathophysiology, the role of intrapartum monitoring and the practical usage of this relatively new technology in our review. Methods: An electronic search of Medline and OVID was carried out, followed by a manual search of the references identified by the electronic search. Results: The incorporation of ST waveform analysis to cardiotocography has been shown to reduce the rates of neonatal metabolic acidosis, moderate and severe neonatal encephalopathy, thus improving perinatal outcome. The reduction in operative delivery rates due to fetal distress is also significant. The pathophysiology and practical usage of this technology were discussed. Conclusions: With more accurate identification of fetal hypoxia and reduction of unnecessary intervention rates, incorporation of ST waveform analysis of fetal electrocardiography into cardiotocography can improve the standard of intrapartum fetal monitoring. Key words: Cardiotocography, Fetal electocardiography, Fetal ST waveform analysis, Intrapartum, Perinatal outcomes

Limitations of ST analysis in clinical practice: three cases of intrapartum metabolic acidosis

OBJECTIVE

To examine detailed intrapartum events in cases of neonatal metabolic acidosis despite monitoring using STAN (cardiotocography [CTG] plus ST waveform analysis of fetal electrocardiogram [ECG]).

DESIGN

Retrospective case review.

SETTING

High-risk pregnancies monitored by STAN.

METHODS

Case note review was performed in newborns with metabolic acidosis where no significant ST changes in the fetal ECG occurred prior to birth.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Metabolic acidosis.

RESULTS

Detailed review of three cases identified poor signal quality, difficulties in CTG interpretation, failure to comply with STAN clinical guidelines and deterioration of the CTG without ECG alert as the leading causes of these adverse outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

The cases illustrate some of the pitfalls associated with the clinical application of the STAN technology which prevent severe metabolic acidosis being eradicated completely. It may be useful to expand the STAN guidelines protocol towards the identification of exceptional clinical situations, such as in our cases, and towards appropriate additional interventions, as this may lead to a further reduction in adverse neonatal outcomes.

Fetal electrocardiogram ST-segment analysis and prediction of neonatal acidosis

OBJECTIVE

To determine the diagnostic value of fetal ST-segment analysis (STAN) in predicting neonatal acidosis.

METHODS

The STAN S21 was used to monitor singleton fetuses in labor with abnormal FHR. Physicians later reviewed tracings to identify any ST events dictating intervention. Outcome measures were umbilical artery pH< or =7.15 and pH< or =7.05 at birth. The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of a significant ST event to predict both outcomes were calculated.

RESULTS

Analysis included 411 women. Sensitivity of a significant ST event for screening pH< or =7.15 (21.9%) was 38% (41/108), specificity 83% (252/303), PPV 45% (41/92) and NPV 79% (252/319), and for pH< or =7.05, it was (3.4%), 62.5% (10/16), 79% (313/395), 11% (10/92), and 98% (313/319), respectively.

CONCLUSION

In a population with abnormal FHR in labor, STAN sensitivity is moderate (almost 40%) for predicting pH< or =7.15 and better (almost 60%) for more severe acidosis (pH< or =7.05).

Vibroacoustic stimulation for fetal assessment in labour in the presence of a nonreassuring fetal heart rate trace

BACKGROUND

Fetal vibroacoustic stimulation is a simple, non-invasive technique where a device is placed on the maternal abdomen over the region of the fetal head and sound is emitted at a predetermined level for several seconds. It is hypothesized that the resultant startle reflex in the fetus and subsequent fetal heart rate acceleration or transient tachycardia following vibroacoustic stimulation provide reassurance of fetal well-being. This technique has been proposed as a tool to assess fetal well-being in the presence of a non-reassuring cardiotocographic trace during the first and second stages of labour.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the clinical effectiveness and safety of vibroacoustic stimulation in the assessment of fetal well-being during labour, compared with mock or no stimulation for women with a singleton pregnancy exhibiting a non-reassuring fetal heart rate pattern.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group Trials Register (30 September 2004), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library, Issue 1, 2004), MEDLINE (January 1966 to January 2005), EMBASE (January 1966 to January 2005) and reference lists of all retrieved articles. We sought unpublished trials and abstracts submitted to major international congresses and contacted expert informants.

SELECTION CRITERIA

All published and unpublished randomised trials that compared maternal and fetal/neonatal/infant outcomes when vibroacoustic stimulation was used to evaluate fetal status in the presence of a non-reassuring cardiotocographic trace during labour, compared with mock or no stimulation.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two independent review authors identified potential studies from the literature search and assessed them for methodological quality and appropriateness of inclusion, using a data extraction form. Attempts to contact study authors for additional information were unsuccessful.

MAIN RESULTS

The search strategies yielded six studies for consideration of inclusion. However, none of these studies fulfilled the requirements for inclusion in this review.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There are currently no randomised controlled trials that address the safety and efficacy of vibroacoustic stimulation used to assess fetal well-being in labour in the presence of a non-reassuring cardiotocographic trace. Although vibroacoustic stimulation has been proposed as a simple, non-invasive tool for assessment of fetal well-being, there is insufficient evidence from randomised trials on which to base recommendations for use of vibroacoustic stimulation in the evaluation of fetal well-being in labour in the presence of a non-reassuring cardiotocographic trace.

Fetal electrocardiogram waveform analysis in labour

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

ST-waveform analysis of the fetal electrocardiogram (ECG) has emerged from experimental and observational studies to clinical use based on the outcome of two large randomized controlled trials and a European Union-supported project on the structured dissemination of knowledge and experience by establishing regional centres of excellence. The review focuses on the outcome from the host of studies and those recently published.

RECENT FINDINGS

The database is dominated by a Swedish randomized controlled trial demonstrating not only improved outcome with regard to cord-artery metabolic acidosis and fewer operative interventions for non-reassuring fetal state but, most importantly, the marked and significant reduction in the risk of neonates showing signs of moderate or severe neonatal encephalopathy. The first report from the European Union project is presented, verifying the clinical relevance of the STAN methodology. The outcome of the large European Union project of 8000 deliveries confirms the observations of the randomized controlled trials. A study on the outcome shows improvements in accuracy and consistency among clinicians when automated ST analysis is added to the fetal heart rate trace.

SUMMARY

After years of dedicated research, it appears as though ST analysis of the fetal ECG has become an additional source of information allowing detailed analysis of fetal responses and more accurate identification of a non-reassuring fetal status. The technology provides continuous information throughout labour. As with any new methodology, structured efforts on training and user feedback are required to fully implement the STAN methodology in clinical practice.

Marked fetal acidosis and specific changes in power spectrum analysis of fetal heart rate variability recorded during the last hour of labour

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether intrapartum acidosis affects specific components of fetal heart rate variability.

DESIGN

Prospective clinical study.

SETTING

Twelve Nordic delivery units.

SUBJECTS

Fetal heart rate variability was studied in 334 fetuses divided into two groups according to cord pH value: the acidotic group (cord arterial pH < 7.05 at birth, n= 15) and the control group (cord arterial pH > or =7.05 at birth, n= 319).

METHODS

In spectral analysis of fetal heart rate variability, frequencies were integrated over the total frequency band (0.04-1.0 Hz), low-frequency band (0.04-0.15 Hz) and high-frequency band (0.15-1.0 Hz). We also calculated the low-to-high frequency ratio.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The spectral bands of fetal heart rate variability were compared between the acidotic and control fetuses.

RESULTS

We found that during the last hour of monitoring, baseline fetal heart rate gradually decreased, whereas total, low-frequency and high-frequency fetal heart rate variability initially increased but then, near the delivery, decreased in the acidotic fetuses when compared with the controls. Low-to-high frequency ratio was greater in the acidotic group during the whole study period (P= 0.002). Cord artery pH was inversely associated with total fetal heart rate variability (P < 0.001), low-frequency fetal heart rate variability (P < 0.001) and low-to-high frequency ratio (P= 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

Marked fetal acidosis was associated with frequency-specific changes in fetal heart rate variability as reflecting the compensation ability of autonomic nervous activation during the last hour of labour.

ST segment analysis of the fetal electrocardiogram plus electronic fetal heart rate monitoring in labor and its relationship to umbilical cord arterial blood gases

OBJECTIVE

This study was undertaken to determine the ability of intrapartum electronic fetal heart rate monitoring (EFM) plus fetal electrocardiogram (ECG) ST segment automated ANalysis (STAN, Neoventa Medical, Goteborg, Sweden) monitoring to predict metabolic acidemia (defined as an umbilical cord artery pH < 7.15 and base deficit > or = 12 mmol/L) at birth.

STUDY DESIGN

Women with singleton, term pregnancies who had a clinical indication for internal EFM with a fetal scalp electrode were included in the study. Attending physicians were blinded to the ST analysis information, only using available EFM as per current clinical practice. After delivery, 2 trained observers blinded to neonatal outcome and ST analysis information performed visual classification of the EFM tracing in 10-minute epochs according to FIGO guidelines. ST events automatically detected by the STAN S21 monitor (Neoventa Medical) were combined with the visual EFM classification as per STAN clinical guidelines (Neoventa Medical).

RESULTS

When applying STAN clinical guidelines from a sample of 143 women, our data indicated a sensitivity of 43%, specificity of 74%, negative predictive value of 96%, and a positive predictive value of 8% for metabolic acidemia at birth. Poor ECG quality, despite good EFM tracings (ECG signal loss), occurred 11% of the tracing time.

CONCLUSION

The STAN clinical guidelines have a poor positive predictive value and a sensitivity of less than 50% for metabolic acidemia at birth.

The effects of intrapartum hypoxia on the fetal QT interval

BACKGROUND

The morphology of the fetal ECG complex provides information on the fetal condition during labour, such as the ST segment and T-wave configuration. We hypothesised that the intrapartum fetal QT interval may provide additional information on the condition of the fetus, as it is known that the QT interval reacts to situations of stress and exercise.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

SETTING

Data were substracted from a European community multicentre trial.

METHODS

The intrapartum QT interval was measured in 68 fetuses who were acidemic at birth (pH <7.05 and BD (ecf) >12 mmol/L) and in a control group of similar size. All of these cases were monitored by STAN S21. Measurements were performed at the start of the recording at baseline heart rate, during variable decelerations and at the end of the recording. The QTc was calculated using Bazett's formula: QT/ radical RR. The intervals were compared using the Wilcoxon signed ranks test.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Fetal QT interval, and the corrected QT interval: QTc.

RESULTS

In the acidemic fetuses, there was a significant shortening of the QTc interval at the end of the recording compared with the start of the recording (397 ms at the end vs 359.3 ms at start; P < 0.001), in association with a significantly lowered heart rate (136.3 vs 110.9 bpm, P < 0.001). Measurements of QT and QTc during variable decelerations at the start and end of the recording also showed a shortening of the QT interval (301.9 vs 273.3 ms, P< or = 0.001) and QTc interval (381.6 vs 340.3, P < 0.001), and this was not dependent on heart rate. In the control cases, no differences in FHR, QT and QTc intervals were present.

CONCLUSIONS

In intrapartum hypoxia, resulting in metabolic acidosis, a significant shortening of the fetal QT and QTc is present, irrespective of changes in heart rate. In control cases, this shortening does not occur. The intrapartum fetal QT interval may therefore provide additional information on the condition of the fetus.

Fetal surgery, anaesthesiological considerations

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Refined techniques and skills have enabled sophisticated prenatal diagnosis in utero and resulted in the newly evolving specialty of fetal surgery in a few centres worldwide. Most of the procedures performed today have been preceded by extensive experimental research in animals, whereas fetal anaesthesia is mainly based on clinical experience and a few studies performed in pregnant sheep.

RECENT FINDINGS

Major limitations of fetal surgery include the high frequency of preterm labour and delivery which may offset any fetal benefit of the surgical procedure. The development of more potent tocolytic drugs than the drugs currently available may thus be compared to the meaning of potent immunosuppressive agents in organ transplantation. Fetal mortality and maternal morbidity consequently lead to a more cautious way of treatment, as with the development of endoscopic fetal surgery.

SUMMARY

The invasive fetal surgery is still considered as being in a research stage in most cases. Therefore most procedures are performed as minimally invasive, avoiding substantial risks by accessing the uterus through minimal openings. Some new devices are under investigation for monitoring the myometrial electrical activity and mechanical contractility and the fetal electroencephalogram, the continuous monitoring of the fetal arterial oxygen saturation, PO2 and PCO2, and for monitoring fetal cerebral oxygenation, blood volume and blood flow by near infrared spectroscopy.

Fetal ECG waveform analysis

Fetal ECG waveform analysis as an adjunct to electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) has developed over the last 3 decades. From a multitude of potential parameters, ST waveform analysis has been documented to provide the information required to shift EFM from a screening device to a diagnostic tool that meets the standards of evidence-based medicine. This chapter details the experimental and clinical evolution of the STAN methodology for intrapartum fetal surveillance. Observational data formed the basis for cardiotocograph (CTG) and ST waveform analysis clinical guidelines. Data from two large, randomized controlled trials (6826 cases) are summarized together with the first analysis of the recently completed EU project of 7823 term fetuses monitored as part of the study to introduce ST analysis into clinical practice. The reduction in the incidence of newborns with marked neurological symptoms is supported by these findings. The detection of ST changes allowed earlier and more consistent intervention.

Current status of intrapartum fetal monitoring: cardiotocography versus cardiotocography + ST analysis of the fetal ECG

Two randomized controlled trials (RCT) on intrapartum fetal monitoring with cardiotocography (CTG) only versus CTG combined with automatic ST segment waveform analysis of the fetal ECG have been performed. In altogether 6826 randomized cases, the odds ratio for operative delivery for fetal distress (ODFD) was 0.65 (95% confidence interval 0.53-0.78) and for metabolic acidosis at birth 0.39 (0.21-0.72), in favor of the CTG+ST method. CTG combined with ST analysis increases the ability of obstetricians to identify fetal hypoxia and to intervene more appropriately, resulting in an improved perinatal outcome.