750 cardiotocographic curves of the last 30 minutes prior to vaginal delivery were assessed retrospectively according to the CTG score after Hammacher et al. (6). The aim of this study was to examine the prognostic value of the CTG score with regard to the foetal acid-base stains. The results obtained showed a distinct interdependence between the CTG score and the risk of foetal acidosis. Correct interpretation of the CTG can be ensured only if all three different CTG parameters are considered. The most frequent and reliable pointers to the existence of foetal acidosis are the occurrence of severe variable or late decelerations which can be detected from an examination of the floating-line pattern.

In a case of prenatal diagnosis of lymphangioma (hygroma) of the neck the results of sonographic and computer tomographic investigations were compared. It was shown that the methods are complimentary and lead to very similar conclusions. The first investigation should be by ultra-sound because of the lack of radiation. The computer tomography is then indicated with specific questions in mind and the radiation exposure can be minimized. In the presented case the combination of sonography and computer tomography permitted a prognosis of poor operability of the lesion. Since the prognosis cannot be determined with complete certainty prior to delivery the obstetrician and neonatalogist need to proceed with the possibility of a treatable anomaly in mind. The neckopsy findings in our case confirmed the inoperability of the lesion.