New multipronged fetal scalp electrode: a preliminary report.

Presented is a preliminary report of the use of a new type of scalp electrode (patent pending), which, because of its design, may have the advantage of improved safety. It was used on 40 patients in labor. To confirm the quality of the recording, in all cases, a fetal electrocardiogram was also obtained. Application was achieved on the first attempt in 37 cases in two additional cases on the second attempt. There were no reported cases of the electrode being dislodged during labor. The quality of the recording was reported to be good. There were no reported cases of trauma to the fetal scalp nor were there any cases of infection noted.