Specific weight formula for fetuses with abdominal wall defects

Abstract

Objectives To develop and to evaluate a specific sonographic weight formula for fetuses with abdominal wall defects. Methods

Accuracy of Sonography to Predict Estimated Weight in Fetuses With Gastroschisis

“…4 That study did not incorporate a value for interval growth between the last estimated fetal weight and birth weight, which accounted for their result of -10.8% (compared to our result of -5.6% with interval growth). Similarly, Siemer et al 15 found that the mean percent error was -11.02 % (±12.09) for a series of 97 fetuses with both gastroschisis and omphalocele using the 1985 Hadlock formula. 6 The calculation was performed within 7 days before delivery but did not account for interval growth.…”

“…To our knowledge, no other studies have accounted for this variable. 4,5,15 For this reason, we have presented data for both groups separately (1 and 2 weeks from sonography) and together and without the daily correction factor. In doing so, we hope that our data will be useful and more easily comparable to other data in the literature.…”

Incorporation of femur length leads to underestimation of fetal weight in asymmetric preterm growth restriction

“…There is evidence that the observed error in estimating fetal weight may be improved through the use of three‐dimensional ultrasound measurements of fetal soft tissue25. Siemer et al showed that volumetric measurements of the fetal abdomen and femur improved the accuracy of weight estimation in 150 small fetuses (< 1600 g)26. Though this technique has yet to be used in asymmetric IUGR, it may play a role improving accuracy.…”

“…Mean percentage errors were compared to zero using the paired t ‐test. The formulae were compared for systematic and random errors using the paired t ‐test and the correlated variances test24, respectively25, 26. Differences in accuracy (systematic errors) between formulae were considered significant when P was less than 0.006, as determined by Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons.…”

Does gastric dilation predict adverse perinatal or surgical outcome in fetuses with gastroschisis?

“…Serial prenatal ultrasound scans are used to assess fetal growth and well‐being and the condition of the exteriorized bowel10. Fetuses with gastroschisis often exhibit impaired growth and the estimation of fetal weight is challenging due to the decompressed fetal abdomen11. Careful fetal assessment is important for this reason and is often compounded by maternal risk factors including teenage pregnancy and smoking12–16.…”