Abstract
This review critically appraises the literature to evaluate the impact of intrapartum cardiotocography (CTG) on clinical outcome and to revisit its role in clinical practice. Electronic fetal monitoring in labour (EFM) has been used for the last 40 years. Studies have failed to demonstrate clear benefits of the use of CTG monitoring on the incidence of cerebral palsy, perinatal mortality or other indicators of neonatal well-being. The only clinically relevant benefit from the use of CTG is a reduction of neonatal seizures. Continuous CTG is associated with an increase in caesarean sections and instrumental vaginal deliveries and has a high false positive rate. However, despite the lack of clear evidence to support its role, until new technologies are developed, CTG monitoring is a useful modality when monitoring fetal status during labour.
Translated title of the contribution | Impact of CTG monitoring on clinical outcome: CCConclusions after 40 years of debate |
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Original language | German |
Pages (from-to) | 336-342 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | Gynakologe |
Volume | 42 |
Issue number | 5 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - May 2009 |
Keywords
- Caesarean section rate
- Cerebral palsy
- Fetal ECG
- Fetal heart rate
- Intrapartal cardiotocography
- Neonatal seizure