Fetal pulse oximetry: an adjunct to electronic fetal heart rate monitoring

Electronic fetal heart rate monitoring is routinely used as an indirect measure of fetal oxygenation, yet its value continues to be questioned. With a nonreassuring fetal heart rate pattern, the clinician often needs additional information about fetal oxygen status. Fetal pulse oximetry is a new fetal assessment technology. After consideration of the results of a multicenter randomized, controlled, clinical trial on fetal pulse oximetry in the United States, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the technology for clinical use on May 12, 2000. The results of this trial are anticipated to be published in late 2000.