Discussion Questions

• ■
  

  What was the aim of this study?

  
  
• ■
  

  How does uterine electromyography work?

  
  
• ■
  

  Who were the study participants?

  
  
• ■
  

  Can you comment on sample size and data analysis?

  
  
• ■
  

  What were the results?

  
  
• ■
  

  What directions might future research take?

While external tocodynamometry is useful in gauging the frequency and duration of contractions, the intrauterine pressure catheter (IUPC) determines these more accurately and also measures contraction intensity. However, because the IUPC is invasive, its use is best reserved for selected patients, including women who are obese or who are having an inadequate response to oxytocin. An innovative system not yet available in the United States might overcome the drawbacks of both methods, proving useful in all patients.

Studies to date suggest the electrical uterine myography monitor (OB-Tools, Migdal Ha’emek, Israel), which pairs novel technology software and a device, detects contraction onset, time to peak, frequency, duration, and intensity. In short, the electrical activity that drives uterine contractions is captured with 9 electrodes—placed in 3 rows and 3 columns around the mother’s umbilicus—and a multichannel amplifier. The software then deciphers the signals and renders a contraction wave that can be analyzed for relevant parameters. In a new study, Haran and colleagues evaluated the technique against the IUPC, currently the gold standard for tracking uterine activity.