Formulas for fetal weight estimation by ultrasound measurements based on neonatal specific gravities and volumes

Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1987 Nov;157(5):1140-5. doi: 10.1016/s0002-9378(87)80278-8.

Abstract

To improve the accuracy of fetal weight estimation by ultrasound measurement, especially in low birth weight infants, including those with intrauterine growth retardation, two new formulas were developed from a new point of view. The formulas were established by (1) actual measurements of the volumes of the neonatal head and trunk with limbs, (2) analysis of the relationship between the sizes of the parts of the fetal body measured by ultrasound examination before birth and the volumes of the parts of the neonatal body, and (3) calculation of the specific gravities of the parts of the neonatal body. The prospective study showed a high correlation between estimated weights and actual birth weights with a small range of error in infants weighing between 450 and 4800 gm.

MeSH terms

  • Birth Weight*
  • Body Weight
  • Embryonic and Fetal Development*
  • Female
  • Fetal Growth Retardation / diagnosis*
  • Fetus / anatomy & histology*
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Pregnancy
  • Prenatal Diagnosis*
  • Prospective Studies
  • Specific Gravity
  • Ultrasonography*