Cardiotocography
Pronunciation: kar-dee-oh-toh-KOG-rah-fee
Continuous electronic monitoring of fetal heart rate and uterine contractions, essential for assessing fetal well-being during anesthesia administration.
Full Definition
Cardiotocography (CTG) is a technical method of fetal surveillance that simultaneously records the fetal heart rate and uterine contraction activity using external ultrasound transducers or internal electrodes. In obstetric anesthesia, CTG monitoring is crucial before, during, and after neuraxial procedures to detect any fetal compromise that may result from maternal hypotension, aortocaval compression, or other anesthesia-related complications. The CTG tracing provides valuable information about fetal oxygenation status through heart rate variability, accelerations, and decelerations patterns. Anesthesiologists must understand basic CTG interpretation to recognize concerning patterns that may require immediate intervention, such as repositioning, fluid administration, or vasopressor therapy to maintain uteroplacental perfusion.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as CTG or EFM; essential for monitoring fetal response to anesthesia.
In Context
- "Cardiotocography monitoring was maintained throughout epidural placement to assess fetal response." — Labor analgesia procedure
- "The CTG showed reassuring fetal heart rate patterns following spinal anesthesia administration." — Cesarean delivery monitoring