Continuous transcutaneous oxygen monitoring in fetal surveillance during labor

Continuous transcutaneous oxygen (P_tcO₂) monitoring is a noninvasive technique for recording changes in central oxygenation. P_tcO₂ monitoring has been for some years a routine method in neonatal and adult intensive care. The technique is a potential tool in fetal surveillance during labor. Some recently published studies which have been critical of the use of P_tcO₂ monitoring in the delivery room reveal a lack of thorough understanding of the limitations of the technique. From the author's experience with the technique, it is obvious that, when the P_tcO₂ electrode is attached according to recommendations and when the monitoring situation fulfills certain criteria, P_tcO₂ reliably reflects changes in the fetal oxygenation during labor and may be used for the diagnosis of true hypoxemia. P_tcO₂ monitoring does not replace any other available routine monitoring for fetal surveillance, but when the technique is refined, it may become an additional means of diagnosing fetal jeopardy. As a research parameter, P_tcO₂ monitoring has already contributed to a more diversified understanding of the process of fetal asphyxia.