Cardiotocographic findings in abruptio placentae.

The findings in cardiotocograms of 18 patients with placental abruption were analysed. Eleven out of 16 cases monitored during the 2-h period preceding delivery had five or more contractions in 10 min, with a mean of 5.6. Signs of fetal distress in heart rate recordings in the same period were found in 14 monitored cases. The diagnostic value of the cardiotocogram, especially the interpretation of tocograms in placental abruption, is stressed.