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Antenatal assessment using the FECG obtained via abdominal electrodes
J A Crowe1, M S Woolfson, B R Hayes-Gill
1Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, University of Nottingham, U.K.
Journal of Perinatal Medicine
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Researchers explored antenatal abdominal fetal electrocardiogram (FECG) analysis using surface electrodes. Early results show a 75% success rate for a bedside monitor, demonstrating feasibility for fetal monitoring during pregnancy.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
- Signal Processing
Background:
- Intrapartum fetal monitoring traditionally relies on FECG (fetal electrocardiogram) via scalp electrodes.
- Conventional methods focus on heart rate derived from RR intervals.
- Novel approaches aim to extract morphological information from the FECG for enhanced analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To extend intrapartum FECG monitoring techniques to the antenatal period.
- To investigate the feasibility of acquiring FECG signals from the maternal abdomen using surface electrodes.
- To develop a bedside monitor for antenatal FECG analysis and explore ambulant monitoring.
Main Methods:
- Development of a bedside monitor for antenatal FECG acquisition via abdominal surface electrodes.
- Signal processing techniques to extract FECG from abdominal signals amidst noise.
- Investigation into long-term monitoring using a portable instrument.
Main Results:
- Successful extraction and processing of FECG in approximately 75% of monitored cases (20 weeks gestation to term).
- Demonstrated feasibility of antenatal abdominal FECG analysis.
- Established the capability for long-term maternal and fetal heart rate monitoring with a portable device.
Conclusions:
- Antenatal abdominal FECG analysis is feasible using surface electrodes.
- A bedside monitor can successfully extract FECG in a significant percentage of cases.
- Portable instruments can facilitate long-term antenatal fetal heart rate monitoring.