Use of sonographic estimated fetal weight in the prediction of intrauterine growth retardation

Abstract

The value of sonographic estimated fetal weight (SEFW) in the antenatal detection of intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) was tested in a population of 179 patients, at risk for IUGR, who had a SEFW determination within 15 days of delivery. A nomogram was developed and three zones of SEFW were defined. Sixty percent of the population had an SEFW determination in Zone I, and no IUGR occurred in this group. Thirty-one percent of the scanned population fell into Zone II, with a 24% prevalence of IUGR. Nine percent of referred patients were in Zone III; 82% of these were growth retarded at birth. SEFW is a useful tool in the antenatal diagnosis of IUGR.