In the roundtable that follows, clinicians discuss a study published in this issue of the Journal in light of its methodology, relevance to practice, and implications for future research. Article discussed:
Haran G, Elbaz M, Fejgin MD, et al. A comparison of surface acquired uterine electromyography and intrauterine pressure catheter to assess uterine activity. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2012;206:412.e1-5.
Discussion Questions
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What was the aim of this study?
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How does uterine electromyography work?
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Who were the study participants?
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Can you comment on sample size and data analysis?
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What were the results?
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What directions might future research take?
See related article, page 412
For summary and anaylsis of this discussion, see page 449
Introduction
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 having an inadequate response to oxytocin. An innovative system not yet available in the United States might overcome the drawbacks of both methods. Studies to date suggest the electrical uterine myography monitor (OB-Tools, Migdal Ha’emek, Israel) detects contraction onset, time to peak, frequency, duration, and intensity. In a new study, Haran and colleagues evaluated the technique against the IUPC.
George A. Macones, MD, MSCE, Associate Editor
Introduction
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 having an inadequate response to oxytocin. An innovative system not yet available in the United States might overcome the drawbacks of both methods. Studies to date suggest the electrical uterine myography monitor (OB-Tools, Migdal Ha’emek, Israel) detects contraction onset, time to peak, frequency, duration, and intensity. In a new study, Haran and colleagues evaluated the technique against the IUPC.
George A. Macones, MD, MSCE, Associate Editor
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