Variable fetal heart rate decelerations and electrocortical activities.

Murata, Y; Quilligan, E J; Ninomiya, Y; Wakatsuki, A; Masaoka, N; Oka, S; Fujimori, K · Am J Obstet Gynecol · 1994

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of fetal behavioral states on baroreflex-mediated, variable fetal heart rate decelerations caused by umbilical cord occlusion. Five chronically instrumented fetal lambs were subjected to intermittent partial umbilical cord occlusion for 1 minute every 3 minutes, lasting 2 hours. Fetal behavioral states determined by electrocorticogram and heart rates by electrocardiogram were monitored continuously during these experiments. The fetuses exhibited an alteration between low- and high-voltage electrocorticogram states. Both the depth and width of the variable fetal heart rate decelerations were greater during high-voltage than during low-voltage electrocorticogram. Amplitude and duration of variable fetal heart rate decelerations are affected by fetal behavioral states.

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