[The effect of pH values and the method of delivery on intrapartum injuries in the neonate].

pH values of the blood taken intrapartally from the presenting part of fetus was analysed in 255 deliveries. The analysis comprised pH values of newborns born by Cesarean section in which pH values were determined from the blood of the umbilical cord, immediately after birth. The authors also analysed pH values in newborns born by vacuum extraction as well as in normal vaginal deliveries, and pH values were determined from the blood of the umbilical cord, immediately after birth. A part of this paper dealt with the influence of pH values on glycolysis of human fetal erythrocytes (in vitro). Decrease in pH values below 7.25 led to the slowness of the glycolysis process which was two times faster when pH values were over 7.30. The influence of pH values on intrapartal injuries of newborns was investigated in the application of vacuum extraction. These injuries were more frequent in newborns which are in acidosis, i.e. with lower values of pH blood. The authors concluded that vacuum extraction itself did not lead to injuries, but only augmented sensibility, i.e. decreased resistance of the tissue which was in acidosis were in question. They believed that vacuum extraction was a good method when applied on time in indicated cases.