Correlation between foot length and ear length of second and third trimester fetuses and its clinical significance

Abstract

Introduction: Foot length has been used as a predictor of gestational age in human fetuses, because this data can be obtained from ultrsonographic examination and by manual measurement and it is particularly useful when other parameters do not accurately predict gestaional age(for example in fetuses with hydrocephalus, anencephaly, short limb dysplasia). Several authors have evaluated ear length during the second trimester, showing a correlation between ear length and gestational age as well as ear length and biperital diameter. Aims and Objectives: To determine the gestational age with the help of ear length in second and third trimester fetuses. To correlate the growth pattern of foot length and ear length of second and third trimester fetuses. Material and Method: Study was conducted on 103 aborted or stillborn fetuses obtained from obs & Gyanaecology dept. BRD Medical College Gorakhpur. LMP was noted for calculation of gestational age .fetal foot length and ear length were measured with the help of digital vernier caliper.Result: Approximately 2fold increase in foot length and ear length are seen in 3 rd trimester as compared to 2 nd trimester. Linear association of foot length with ear length in different gestational age are found. Conclusion:The data provided in our study for foot length and ear length could be beneficial for the clinicians not only for the assessment of gestational age of the fetus but also will help them for early diagnosis of trisomy 21.