Vibroacoustic and scalp stimulation.
Both VAS and scalp stimulation are useful in the evaluation of fetal compromise by decreasing the number of falsely abnormal FHR tests and limiting the number of unnecessary interventions, thus improving the efficiency of antepartum and intrapartum FHR monitoring. As is true for all types of fetal assessment using FHR monitoring, VAS and scalp stimulation have limitations, and a lack of response to these methodologies does not necessarily indicate fetal acidemia. When either VAS or scalp stimulation is employed, one must take into consideration their respective predictive values (see Table 1). Fetal VAS or scalp stimulation should be considered as one facet of comprehensive fetal evaluation. When these techniques are used in this manner, the clinician evaluating the fetus in the antepartum or intrapartum period may prevent unnecessary intervention and improve maternal and neonatal outcome.
Porter
T F
TF
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City. ldtporte@ihc.com
Clark
S L
SL
D000161:Acoustic Stimulation; D015148:Cardiotocography / Q000379:methods*; D036861:Delivery, Obstetric; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010812:Physical Stimulation; D011247:Pregnancy; D012535:Scalp; D016216:Ultrasonography, Prenatal; D014732:Vibration