Fetal scalp pH and ST analysis of the fetal ECG as an adjunct to cardiotocography to predict fetal acidosis in labor--a multi-center, case controlled study.

Objective: To assess the relationship between scalp pH (FBS) and ST analysis in situations of acidosis with special emphasis on the timing of cardiotocography (CTG), FBS and ST changes during labor.

Study Design: From a European Union multicenter study on clinical implementation of the STAN methodology, 911 cases were identified where a scalp-pH had been obtained. In 53 cases, marked cord artery acidosis was found (cord artery pH<7.

Fetal ECG waveform analysis.

Fetal ECG waveform analysis as an adjunct to electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) has developed over the last 3 decades. From a multitude of potential parameters, ST waveform analysis has been documented to provide the information required to shift EFM from a screening device to a diagnostic tool that meets the standards of evidence-based medicine. This chapter details the experimental and clinical evolution of the STAN methodology for intrapartum fetal surveillance.