Fetal ultrasound biometry for pregnant population in the County of Primorje-Gorski Kotar (Croatia)

Abstract

Objective. To create curves of three most commonly used biometric parameters for singleton pregnancies from 22 to 41 weeks of gestation in the County of Primorje-Gorski Kotar (Croatia) and to compare results with other studies.

Methods. From January 2002 to December 2009, ultrasound examination was performed on fetuses of 1248 pregnant women with uncomplicated pregnancy. Values for biparietal diameter, femur length, and fetal abdominal circumference were measured. Results were compared with studies pertaining to European and North American population. Mean, percentile scale, and Wilcoxon's matched pairs test were used. Regression analysis was applied to analyze data correlation and to determine correlation quotients.

Results. Total of 2178 measurements for fetal biometry charts were performed. Established mean and centile values for fetal biometry parameters are reported numerically and graphically. Comparison of obtained values with values of identical fetal biometric parameters of other world populations has revealed statistically significant differences (p < 0.01).

Conclusion. Normal fetal biometry charts for population of pregnant women in the northern coastal region of Croatia were constructed. Due to existence of statistically significant differences in ultrasound fetal biometry values among various populations under comparison, construction of own charts and their implementation in routine obstetrical work are justified.

Keywords:

• Fetal biometry charts
• fetal growth
• ultrasound
• antenatal care

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank Ms. Andrica Lekić, M.Sc., from The Institute of Physics of the Faculty of Medicine in Rijeka for her invaluable help with the statistical data processing.

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the article.