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Prediction of fetal growth deviation by ultrasonic biometry. I. Methodology
Insights
Predicting fetal weight deviation at birth is possible in the 33rd week of pregnancy using ultrasound measurements. This mathematical formula aids antenatal care by identifying impaired or accelerated fetal growth early.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Fetal Medicine
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Accurate assessment of fetal growth is crucial for effective antenatal care.
- Identifying deviations from normal fetal growth patterns allows for timely intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a mathematical formula for predicting fetal weight deviation at birth.
- To enable early identification of impaired or accelerated fetal growth.
Main Methods:
- Utilized two ultrasound examinations: biparietal diameter (BPD) at 17 weeks for gestational age, and BPD and abdominal diameter (AD) at 33 weeks.
- Calculated fetal growth deviation by comparing measured fetal diameters to expected values for gestational age.
- Employed multiple regression analyses on data from 872 fetuses to develop the predictive formula.
Main Results:
- A mathematical formula was successfully developed to predict fetal weight deviation at birth.
- The formula utilizes ultrasound measurements taken in the 33rd week of pregnancy.
- The formula is presented in a practical nomogram format for clinical use.
Conclusions:
- The developed formula provides an effective method for predicting fetal weight deviation.
- Early prediction of fetal growth issues can significantly improve antenatal care outcomes.
- The nomogram offers a user-friendly tool for clinicians to assess fetal growth deviation.
Abstract:
Early information of impaired or accelerated fetal growth is of importance for antenatal care. The present study has produced a mathematical formula which in the 33rd week of pregnancy permits prediction of fetal weight deviation at birth. The prediction was based on two ultrasonic examinations: in the 17th week of pregnancy the biparietal diameter (BPD) was measured to assess the fetal gestational age; in the 33rd week of pregnancy, BPD and the abdominal diameter (AD) of the fetus were measured. Fetal growth deviation was then described by comparing the assessed BPD and AD with the expected mean values for the gestational age on the day of this measurement. For 872 fetuses the growth deviation found in the 33rd week was related to the fetal weight deviation at birth; multiple regression analyses were performed and a mathematical formula developed. For practical purposes this formula is expressed in a nomogram.