Should C-section be applied to fetal arrhythmia?

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the efficacy of fetal arterial oxygen saturation (Spo2) monitoring in cases of fetal arrhythmia. Study Design: Continuous fetal Spo2 was obtained by infrared pulse oximetry (Nellcor Puritan Bennett Inc.). The relationship between Spo2 and FHR pattern was studied in 47 cases. Then three cases of congenital complete A–V block and two cases of supraventricular tachyarrhythmia were prospectively managed by Spo2 monitoring during labor. Results: Whenever the FHR was confirmed, the range of Spo2 was stable between 40 and 80%. Although a variation in Spo2 values were noted during decelerative patterns, a more acidic tendency was found in cases where Spo2 was below 40% prior to delivery. Spo2 values of all five cases of fetal arrhythmia were stable between 40 and 80% and safe vaginal delivery proved to be possible. Conclusions: Fetal Spo2 monitoring seemed to be a useful method to evaluate fetal oxygenation during labor in cases of fetal arrhythmia.© 1997 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd.