High-Quality Transmission of Cardiotocogram and Fetal Information Using a 5G System: Pilot Experiment

Abstract

Background A cardiotocogram (CTG) is a device used to perceive the status of a fetus in utero in real time. There are a few reports of its use at home or during emergency transport. Objective The aim of this study was to test whether CTG and other perinatal information can be transmitted accurately using an experimental station with a 5G transmission system. Methods In the research institute, real-time fetal heart rate waveform data from the CTG device, high-definition video ultrasound images of the fetus, and high-definition video taken with a video camera on a single line were transmitted by 5G radio waves from the transmitting station to the receiving station. Results All data were proven to be transmitted with a minimum delay of less than 1 second. The CTG waveform image quality was not inferior, and there was no interruption in transmission. Images of the transmitted ultrasound examination and video movie were fine and smooth. Conclusions CTG and other information about the fetuses and pregnant women were successfully transmitted by a 5G system. This finding will lead to prompt and accurate medical treatment and improve the prognosis of newborns.

Successful Use of a 5G-Based Robot-Assisted Remote Ultrasound System in a Care Center for Disabled Patients in Rural China

“…For the 5G-based robot-assisted remote ultrasound system, it is necessary to ensure high-precision synchronous transmission ( 32 ). 5G has the advantages of high speed, greater bandwidth, low latency, and higher reliability ( 33 ).…”

5G Use in Healthcare: The Future is Present

“…Several problems could occur and only one successful case has been published so far. 38 With the deployment of 5G this solution could be implemented as described in a recent publication, where the authors simulated the feasibility to concomitantly transmit not only CTG but also real time fetus US videos as well with excellent results. Thus, except CTG, the images during ultrasound examinations were high-quality videos on patient actors, which were transmitted without problems.…”

“…Thus, except CTG, the images during ultrasound examinations were high-quality videos on patient actors, which were transmitted without problems. 38 Thus, home monitoring of a fetus with the 5G system is a particularly useful application, which could create a new future for obstetric care.…”

5G in Healthcare: From COVID-19 to Future Challenges

“…Cardiotocogram is used in medical care clinics only, and there are few reports attempting to send cardiotocogram data via a mobile network from home or from an ambulance to a medical institution. With the deployment of 5G this solution could be implemented as described in a recent publication, where the authors simulated the feasibility to concomitantly transmit not only cardiotocogram but also real time foetus ultrasound videos with excellent results [53]. The images during ultrasound examinations were high-quality videos on patient actors, which were transmitted without problems [53].…”

“…With the deployment of 5G this solution could be implemented as described in a recent publication, where the authors simulated the feasibility to concomitantly transmit not only cardiotocogram but also real time foetus ultrasound videos with excellent results [53]. The images during ultrasound examinations were high-quality videos on patient actors, which were transmitted without problems [53]. Thus, home monitoring of a fetus with the 5G system is a particularly useful application, which could create a new future for obstetric care.…”