Treatment of intrapartum fetal acidosis with beta mimetic drugs

The results obtained in 41 cases of intrapartum fetal acidosis treated by the administration of a beta mimetic drug infusion given to the mother, are presented and discussed. Successful results were obtained in 63.4% of the cases. In an attempt to find in which cases it is possible to expect a successful result, the material of intrapartum fetal acidosis was classified according to the most probable cause, as follows: uterine motility, cord compression, suspected placental insufficiency and unknown or other causes. Success was obtained in 73.3% of the cases with abnormal uterine motility, in 85.7% of the cases of cord complication, in 54.5% of the cases unknown or other causes of fetal distress, and also in 37.5% of the cases classified in the group of suspected placental insufficiency. The value of the methods of control of the fetal condition after the administration of the betamimetic infusion to the mother is discussed. The authors pointed out that the final decision on operative termination of labor, in all cases of intrapartum fetal acidosis, must be delayed till the result of the medical treatment is obtained. On the other hand, the failure of the treatment does not delay operation, since during the 15 minute treatment trial all is ready for fetal extraction. The analysis of the results shows that in many cases surgical interference can be avoided. (Journal rec: 25 March 1976)