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Updated: Jan 18, 2026
14:19
Fetal Echocardiography and Pulsed-wave Doppler Ultrasound in a Rabbit Model of Intrauterine Growth Restriction
Published on: June 29, 2013
28.6K
Longitudinal study of individually adjusted fetal growth
Mariza Marie Fujita1, Rossana Pulcineli Vieira Francisco1,2, Agatha Sacramento Rodrigues2,3
1Obstetric Clinic Division, University Hospital, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
Summary
This study developed individualized fetal growth curves using ultrasound data adjusted for maternal and fetal factors. These personalized curves help assess fetal growth potential in low-risk pregnancies.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Fetal Medicine
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Accurate fetal growth assessment is crucial for monitoring pregnancy health.
- Existing fetal growth charts may not fully account for individual maternal and fetal variations.
- Personalized growth curves can improve the detection of growth abnormalities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To create individualized fetal growth curves using ultrasound parameters.
- To adjust these curves based on maternal and fetal characteristics.
- To provide a tool for assessing optimal fetal growth potential.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of serial ultrasonographic examinations (12-42 weeks gestation).
- Inclusion of singleton pregnancies without maternal or fetal complications.
- Application of mixed linear regression modeling with covariates like gestational age, fetal sex, and maternal factors.
Main Results:
- Developed a model for estimated fetal weight incorporating gestational age, fetal sex, maternal height, and pre-pregnancy BMI.
- Constructed individualized estimated fetal weight curves with percentiles from 12 to 42 weeks.
- Demonstrated the ability to generate personalized growth trajectories based on specific characteristics.
Conclusions:
- The developed growth curves are based on a low-risk Brazilian population.
- These curves enable the assessment of fetal growth potential relative to individual maternal and fetal characteristics.
- Facilitates more precise monitoring of fetal development in clinical practice.
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