Accuracy of Fetal Measurements in Estimation of Gestational Age

Back ground: Gestational age (GA) is a fundamental requisite at autopsy as well as for clinical assessment of growth of the fetus within the womb. Fetal parameters like anthropometric measurements and visceral developments can be used for calculation of GA. The present study was conducted with an aim of assessing the accuracy of fetal measurements like Foot length, Head Circumference, Crown-Rump length, Crown-Heel length and Abdominal Circumference for calculation of GA and to derive regression formulas for the same. Methods: The study was conducted on 60 foetuses with known gestational age (calculated by obstetrical methods). The fetal measurements were measured as per the standard protocol. Results: The study showed that there is a good correlation between gestational age and FL, HC, CRL, CHL and AC. FL was more accurate in assessing GA followed by HC, CRL, CHL and AC. The correlation coefficients of the equation & standard error of the estimate were 0.922 &2.41088, 0.901& 2.70397, 0.878 &2.97715, 0.900 &2.77665 and 0.886 & 2.89121 respectively for FL, HC, CRL, CHL and AC. Conclusion: We conclude that fetal measurements like FL, HC, CRL, CHL and AC are reliable for estimation of fetal age. FL is more accurate than other fetal parameters for estimation of GA followed by HC, CRL, CHL and AC. Key words: Gestational age, Foot length, Head Circumference, Crown-Rump length, Crown-Heel length, Abdominal Circumference.