Journal of Ultrasound in Medicine, Vol 4, Issue 6 273-282, Copyright © 1985 by American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine
Fetal limb volume: a new parameter to assess fetal growth and nutrition
P. Jeanty, R. Romero and J. C. Hobbins
Fetal growth and nutrition were evaluated using measurements of the
subcutaneous tissues of the arm and leg to calculate limb volume. Arm
measurements included transverse and anteroposterior arm thicknesses and
subcutaneous tissue thickness; leg measurements included lengths and
thicknesses of the humerus and femur, transverse and anteroposterior thigh
thickness, and thigh subcutaneous tissue thickness. Volumes were calculated
using equations with both circular and elliptical perimeters. Limb volume
was found to be strongly correlated with gestational age, and may be a
possible predictive factor of intrauterine growth retardation.