Composite sonographic assessment of fetal health

Abstract

In this chapter the role of ultrasound scanning in the antenatal assessment of fetal growth, the biophysical profile score, and amniotic fluid volume is reviewed. Recent developments in these three areas are described with particular emphasis on assessment of fetal growth in the postmature and diabetic pregnancy. In addition, the false-negative test rate with the biophysical profile score and the role of ultrasound scanning in the assessment of amniotic fluid volume are outlined. Finally my experience gained over a 4-year interval with a composite sonographic method of fetal health assessment is presented.