Does ST analysis have a place in electronic fetal monitoring?

Abstract

Intrapartum cardiotocography (CTG) has a high false-positive rate. This has contributed to the rapid increase in obstetric interventions without a strong improvement in perinatal outcomes. We explore the role of ST analysis (STAN®) as an adjunct to CTG in identifying fetal asphyxia during labor. We conclude that STAN® reduces the rate of fetal blood sampling and instrumental vaginal deliveries, and has the potential to reduce the number of Australian operative interventions without compromising neonatal outcome.

Keywords:

• Cardiotocography
• fetal monitoring
• obstetric intervention
• perinatal outcomes
• ST analysis

Declaration of interest

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of this article.