Resumption of sinus rhythm from fetal complete atrioventricular block after maternally administered ritodrine

Abstract

Reports have indicated that maternal administration of ritodrine increased the ventricular rate and thus ameliorated signs of heart failure in a fetus with complete atrioventricular block (CAVB). A fetus from a mother without the anti-SS-A/SS-B antibody had CAVB, with atrial rate 148-154bpm and ventricular rate 53-57bpm. After maternal administration of ritodrine, the ventricular rate increased to 60-65bpm, and then sinus rhythm resumed. Ritodrine may not only increase the ventricular rate but also induce sinus rhythm in a fetus with CAVB.