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Cardiac systolic time intervals in fetal monkeys: ventricular ejection time
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
|March 1, 1980
Summary
Ventricular ejection time (VET) in fetal rhesus monkeys inversely correlated with heart rate (FHR) but was unaffected by gestational age. Combined hypoxemia and acidosis, but not alone, shortened corrected VET.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Fetal Medicine
- Neonatal Cardiology
Background:
- Understanding fetal cardiac function is crucial for assessing well-being.
- Ventricular ejection time (VET) is a key indicator of cardiac performance.
- Limited data exists on VET regulation in the fetal period.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between VET and fetal heart rate (FHR).
- To determine the influence of gestational age and physiological stressors on VET.
- To examine the effects of pharmacological agents on fetal VET.
Main Methods:
- Chronic catheterization of fetal rhesus monkeys.
- Ultrasound Doppler cardiography to measure VET.
- Monitoring of FHR, blood gases, and administration of epinephrine and atropine.
Main Results:
- VET showed an inverse relationship with FHR between 150-250 bpm.
- VET did not prolong below 150 bpm and was independent of gestational age.
- Corrected VET was shortened by combined hypoxemia and acidosis, and by epinephrine, but not by individual stressors or atropine.
Conclusions:
- Fetal VET is dynamically regulated by heart rate.
- Combined hypoxemia and acidosis significantly impact fetal cardiac function.
- Epinephrine influences fetal VET, suggesting adrenergic modulation of cardiac performance.