Fetal growth as measured by ultrasound

Until the last decade, investigation of fetal growth has been based on data from premature births and abortuses. Advances in ultrasound scanning have expanded the precision and uses of this technology in studies of fetal growth. Most ultrasound studies of fetal growth are based on clinical populations and are reported in clinical journals. The present paper reviews features of ultrasound technology relating to fetal measurement. The most commonly measured dimensions and their associated measurement errors, distributions and uses are detailed. Ultrasound studies of intrauterine growth retardation and in utero fetal weight estimation are critically reviewed. Finally, a comparison between the fetal growth curve based on ultrasound measurement and on data from preterm or aborted fetuses is compared. Critical comments on sample design and statistical treatment of the data from ultrasound studies is included in each of the areas discussed.