Graphical Analysis of Fetal Growth

When ultrasound measurements of the head, abdomen, and femur. they are plotted on a graph to determine if they are in the normal range. The graphical display of growth is a useful adjunct to computation of percentile growth. The following are the most commonly used graphs in the assessment of fetal growth.

Biparietal Diameter and Head Circumference: This graph represents growth of the fetal brain.

Femur Length: This represents growth of the leg and skeletal system.

Abdominal Circumference: This represents growth of the liver.

Head/Body Ratio:This compares growth of the head and abdomen. Abnormal growth results in this ratio being elevated, suggesting Asymmetrical IUGR.

Fetal Weight: This is an estimate of fetal weight derived from the above measurements of the head, abdomen, and femur.