ASSESSMENT OF GESTATIONAL AGE AND PREDICTION OF DYSMATURITY BY ULTRASONIC FETAL CEPHALOMETRY

Abstract

Summary Ultrasonic measurement of the fetal biparietal diameter, as used in the clinical practice of a maternity hospital, gave 641 measurements taken during 387 single pregnancies. These measurements were correlated with gestational age and birth‐weight. A standard growth curve was derived which can be used in the assessment of maturity. A chart has also been prepared to aid in the prediction of dysmaturity from an initial reading of the biparietal diameter. These diagrams can be used to interpret the significance of measurements but it is emphasized that serial readings give the best basis for decisions in the individual case.