Case Report: Using ultrasound to prevent a broken catheter from migrating to the heart.

Peripheral intravenous (IV) catheters can break off while still in the patient, with possible detrimental effects such as upstream migration to the heart. These catheters have probably been damaged by the needle during a difficult insertion. A peripheral IV catheter was removed in a 90 year old patient and only half of the catheter was retrieved.

Uterine activity monitoring during labor.

Aim: To summarize the currently available knowledge on (1) the methods to monitor uterine activity (UA); (2) the units to quantify UA; and (3) to assess the importance of abnormal contraction patterns on the condition of the fetus. The need for correct assessment and interpretation of the uterine contraction curve to improve fetal outcome will be emphasized.

Study Results: Correct assessment of the uterine contraction curve is an essential part of the cardiotocogram and should be obtained by the best method available; i.

Use of uterine Doppler in an Australian level II maternity hospital.

Objective: To evaluate the clinical usefulness of uterine Doppler.

Design: Retrospective study between March 2001 and March 2003.

Setting: A high-risk population of pregnant women in a busy level II Maternity unit.

Transvaginal cervical length measurement; its current application in a regional Australian level II maternity hospital.

Objective: To evaluate the impact of cervical length (CL) measurements in pregnant women at risk for preterm delivery on intervention and pregnancy outcome.

Design: Retrospective study.

Setting: Regional high-level II maternity unit.