Embryonic Bradycardia: a predictor of spontaneous abortion

ABSTRACT

The predictive value of embryonic cardiac activity has been evaluated in 113 cases for evolution of early pregnancy using M-mode of transvaginal sonography [TVS]. The results revealed that embryonic heart rate [EHR] varied considerably, from 78 to 172 beat/min. at 5-12 weeks gestation and the mean EHR has increased significantly from 86 beat/min at fifth week to 158 beat/min at ninth week. It also disclosed that 16.6% of cases recorded persistent and progressive embryonic bradycardia [a cutoff level of 100 beat/min] and of these, 88.89% aborted spontaneously. On the other hand, incidental bradycardia is an insignificant signal and does not predict spontaneous abortion [P >0.05]. The study concluded that persistent embryonic bradycardia is a reliable predictor of spontaneous abortion in the first trimester. The issue should be addressed to all obstetricians