Fetal monitoring during labor.

For three decades, cardiotocography has been the basic technique for fetal surveillance during labor, but its impact on fetal well-being remains controversial. The benefits and disadvantages of fetal monitoring with cardiotocography during labor are reviewed. Special reference is made to the possible effect on the rate of neonatal seizures in newborns and their long-term outcome. (c) 2009 S. Karger AG, Basel.