The 3 categories of CTG (Cardiotocography) are normal, suspicious, and abnormal. These classifications are crucial for assessing fetal well-being during pregnancy and labor.
Understanding CTG Classification
Cardiotocography (CTG) is a technical means of recording the fetal heartbeat and uterine contractions during pregnancy. It is a common method used to monitor the health of the baby and identify any potential distress. To standardize the interpretation of CTG traces, a clear classification system has been established.
The Three Categories of CTG Assessment
A comprehensive, three-level classification system was established to categorize CTG traces, ensuring a consistent approach to interpretation. This system helps healthcare professionals quickly understand the fetal status and determine if any intervention is required.
The categories are:
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Normal | Indicates a healthy fetal state with reassuring patterns, suggesting good fetal oxygenation. Characteristics typically include a baseline fetal heart rate within the normal range, moderate variability, and the absence of concerning decelerations. No immediate intervention is usually required. |
| Suspicious | Suggests patterns that are not clearly normal or abnormal. These traces may show some deviations from normal parameters, such as reduced variability or the presence of non-recurrent decelerations. A suspicious CTG often necessitates further assessment, closer monitoring, or additional tests to clarify fetal well-being. |
| Abnormal | Points to concerning patterns that may indicate fetal compromise, such as persistent decelerations, absent variability, or a persistently abnormal baseline heart rate. An abnormal CTG often signals potential fetal hypoxia or distress and may require immediate medical action, including expedited delivery. |
As established, this classification system provides a clear framework for classifying CTG into normal, suspicious, and abnormal categories, aiding in timely and appropriate clinical management.
