Computer analysis of antepartum fetal heart rate: 2. Detection of accelerations and decelerations

Based upon a previously described procedure for automated baseline determination in antepartum fetal heart rate recordings, a programme has been developed for recognition of accelerations and decelerations. Detection of these deviations from the baseline depends on criteria for amplitude and duration, with special account for signal loss. The described automated analysis provides an objective tool for description of antepartum fetal heart rate patterns. A first evaluation with respect to its capacity to discriminate between different fetal heart rate patterns in relation to fetal rest-activity patterns shows promising results.