Changing obstetric practices and amelioration of perinatal outcome in a university hospital.

A 40 year review of obstetric statistics revealed that the perinatal outcome has improved significantly following the introduction of biophysical and biochemical fetal surveillance systems. A simultaneous increase in the cesarean section rate is noted; however, this increase in the cesarean section rate is not related to an increase in the diagnosis of fetal distress. Other factors which may influence an improved perinatal outcome have been examined. It is concluded that biochemical and biophysical fetal surveillance has played a decisive role in the improvement of perinatal results.