Comparación de la efectividad de la pulsioximetría y el electrocardiograma fetal en las situaciones de riesgo de pérdida de bienestar fetal

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of pulse oximetry and fetal electrocardiogram in the management of labor with fetal heart rate patterns associated with a risk of loss of fetal well-being.

Subjects and methods

We performed an open, randomized, experimental trial with two groups: pulse oximetry was used in one group and the STAN® technique was used in the other. Each group included 40 women with single, term pregnancies in cephalic presentation and fetal heart rate patterns associated with a risk of loss of fetal well-being. The overall cesarean section rate, indications of risk of fetal distress, and neonatal acid-base balance were evaluated.

Results

No significant differences were found in the rate of cesarean section (47.5 vs 40%; P = .33), indications of risk of fetal distress (32.5 vs 37.5%; P = .41), or neonatal outcomes.

Conclusions

The use of pulse oximetry and STAN®21, as auxiliary methods to cardiotocographic recording, showed no superiority in reducing the cesarean section rate or improving neonatal outcomes.