Category
Obstetrics Monitoring
Typical Use
Direct fetal heart rate monitoring when external signals are inadequate.
Description
A small spiral electrode applied to the fetal scalp through the cervix to obtain a direct electrocardiographic fetal heart rate signal when external Doppler monitoring is unreliable, such as in maternal obesity, excessive fetal movement, or during labor with frequent contractions. The scalp electrode provides a high fidelity fetal heart rate tracing that improves detection of accelerations and decelerations and aids clinical decision making in intrapartum monitoring. Application requires ruptured membranes, cervical dilation sufficient for access, and sterile technique; risks include minor fetal scalp trauma and infection, so indications and alternatives must be considered carefully.