A case of fetal complete heart block recorded by magnetocardiography, ultrasonography and direct fetal electrocardiography

Fetal magnetocardiograms (FMCGs) were recorded in a case of fetal complete heart block (CHB) from the 30th to the 37th week of gestation using the mul tichannel SQUID system (Hitachi, Japan). M-mode ultrasonography and direct fetal electrocardiography using needle electrodes revealed fetal CHB. We id entified independent fetal P-waves and QRS complexes in the FMCG recorded i n the 32nd week of gestation when the fetal atriums were close to the FMCG sensor, We also recorded FMCG P-waves in the 37th week of gestation when th e fetal heart was larger. Fetal heart position and size are important for o btaining a useful FMCG. To establish FMCG as a diagnostic tool of fetal arr hythmia, comparative studies with FECG are needed. Copyright (C) 2001 S. Ka rger AG, Basel.