A M Gülmezoglu1, G J Hofmeyr. 1. Special Department of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction, UNDP/UNFPA/WHO/World Bank, World Health Organisation, Geneva 27, Switzerland, CH-1211. gulmezoglum@who.ch
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Transcutaneous electrostimulation is thought to be able to improve blood flow and so it has been suggested that it may help to promote fetal growth. OBJECTIVES: The objective was to assess the effects of transcutaneous electrostimulation in suspected placental insufficiency on the promotion of fetal growth. SEARCH STRATEGY: We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth trials register and the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register. Date of last search: December 1999. SELECTION CRITERIA: Acceptably controlled trials of transcutaneous electrostimulation compared with placebo or no treatment in women with suspected impaired fetal growth or placental insufficiency. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Trial quality was assessed. MAIN RESULTS: No studies were included. REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS: There is not enough evidence to evaluate the use of transcutaneous electrostimulation in the management of women with suspected placental insufficiency.
BACKGROUND: Transcutaneous electrostimulation is thought to be able to improve blood flow and so it has been suggested that it may help to promote fetal growth. OBJECTIVES: The objective was to assess the effects of transcutaneous electrostimulation in suspected placental insufficiency on the promotion of fetal growth. SEARCH STRATEGY: We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth trials register and the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register. Date of last search: December 1999. SELECTION CRITERIA: Acceptably controlled trials of transcutaneous electrostimulation compared with placebo or no treatment in women with suspected impaired fetal growth or placental insufficiency. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Trial quality was assessed. MAIN RESULTS: No studies were included. REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS: There is not enough evidence to evaluate the use of transcutaneous electrostimulation in the management of women with suspected placental insufficiency.