Induced cardioversion of fetal flutter by artificial rupture of membranes at term.

A term fetus with atrial flutter and no signs of cardiac decompensation is described. A trial of pharmacologic cardioversion was unsuccessful, and induction of labor was initiated. Immediately after artificial rupture of the membranes, spontaneous conversion to normal sinus rhythm occurred. The possible mechanism of the cardioverion and the optional treatments for the term fetus with atrial flutter are discussed.