Ultrasonographic Estimation of Fetal Weight in Third Trimester Using Only Two Thigh Parameters and Isobe Algorithm, MOHAMMED S. EL-SAFTY, MOHAMED E. IBRAHIM, MOHAMMED K. ETMAN, MOUNIR F. ELHAO and AHMED A. AHMED
Abstract
Aim: To evaluate the accuracy of using 2 thigh parameters; femur length and cross sectional area of the fetal thigh by ultrasound, together with the Isobe formula for estimation of fetal body weight at third trimester, in comparison with the well established Hadlock formula.
Methods: 105 singleton pregnancies underwent sonograph-ic fetal weight estimation within 72 hours before delivery. Patients were classified into 3 groups according to actual birth weight immediately after delivery: Average birth weight (2500 to 4000 grams), low birth weight (<2500 grams) and large birth weight (>4000 grams). The estimated fetal weight using both Hadlock and Isobe formulae were compared with actual birth weight and mean absolute percent error was calculated among the 3 groups.
Results: Percentage of cases within 10% of actual birth weight was 87.6% versus 61 % with Isobe formula and Hadlock formula respectively.
Conclusion: Isobe Formula could be useful in daily clinical practice for accurate estimation of fetal weight especially in cases where head measurements are impossible.