[Fetal pulse oximetry: a clinical methodological study].

The aim of the study is to provide preliminary assessment of the possibilities of fetal pulse oximetry as a method for monitoring of fetal pulse rate and oxygen saturation during labour. The study includes 65 pregnant women during active labour at term--all with one fetus and ruptured membranes. A system for fetal pulse oximetry is used, consisting of monitor Nellcor-N 400; oxygen sensor FS-14 and printer P-400 (Nellcor Puritan Bennett incorporation). Sensor is applied by mean dilatation of cervical channel 6.5 +/- 1.9 cm. Mean duration of monitoring of the pregnant woman is 104 +/- 68 minutes, range 30 to 180 min. The time of reliable signal quality is 83% for first stage of labour and 70% for second stage of labour. Mean SpO2 values are 47.1 +/- 9.8%. The conclusion is made that fetal pulse oximetry is an easy method to use, without side effects for mother and fetus. Mean SpO2 values are tower than in adults and vary inside wider range 35-55%.