Growth charts of fetal biometry: a longitudinal study

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to construct reference charts for fetal biometry in Karachi, Pakistan. Methods: This was a prospective longitudinal study involving 1228 women with singleton pregnancies. Biparietal diameter, head circumference, abdominal circumference and femur length were measured repeatedly until delivery. Regression analysis and multilevel modeling was used to construct charts. Results: The mean age of the women in this study was 28.0 years with standard deviation of 4.6. For each gestational age percentiles were calculated and charts were then constructed. Conclusion: Our reference percentiles for fetal biometry measurements are the first of their kind in Karachi, Pakistan. They will not only help us in the diagnosis and management of fetal growth restriction but will provide the basis to develop charts at the national level.

Keywords::

• biometry
• growth charts
• ultrasound
• longitudinal

Acknowledgements

The study was funded by the Aga Khan University research council. Shama Munim: Principal Investigator. Initiated the study and wrote the manuscript. Tim Morris: Conducted the data analysis and wrote the results. Nilofer Baber, Monitored patient recruitment and data monitoring and quality related issues. Yasmeen Ansari: Patient recruitment, performed the scans monitored the data. Syed Iqbal Azam: writing up of the study protocol and methodology of the study.

Declaration of interest: The authors report no declarations of interest