ST-segment analysis of the fetal electrocardiogram improves fetal heart rate tracing interpretation and clinical decision making

Introduction: Since its introduction into clinical use, the efficacy of electronic fetal heart rate (FHR) monitoring (EFM) has been questionable. This has been due partly to the marked variation in interpretation of the FHR pattern and subsequent decisions for obstetric intervention, (e.g., the need for prompt delivery). Current application of EFM is limited to the assessment of FHR patterns and uterine contractions. Recent development of higher-order FHR analysis has yielded monitoring systems that can add automated fetal electrocardiographic ST segment analysis to the standard FHR and uterine contraction information. Our goal was to evaluate the effect of adding ST segment analysis to standard FHR information on observer agreement for clinical decision making.Methods: Seven practitioners who were trained and experienced in combined FHR and ST monitoring reviewed 51 fetal monitor tracings, ranging from 2 to 4 h in length. Reviews were conducted in two sessions and at different times. The first session pr...