Lubusky M., Prochazka M., Langova M., Vomackova K., Cizek L. Discrepancy of ultrasound biometric parameters of the head (HC - head circumference, BPD - biparietal diameter) in breech presented fetuses. Bimed. Pap. Med. Fac. Univ. Palacky Olomouc Czech Repub., 2007, 151 (2), p. 323-326.
ABSTRAKT
Background: A comparison of fetal ultrasonographic biometric parameters of the head (head circumference – HC,
biparietal diameter – BPD) in breech presented fetuses.
Methods: Ultrasound biometry was performed in accordance with the method presented in the reference tables. In
all breech presented fetuses, the HC, BPD and FL (femur length) were measured. High-risk and multiple pregnancies
were excluded from the study.
Results: A total of 111 ultrasonographic biometries were performed between the 31st – 38th week of gestation. Fetuses
in the breech position had a signifi cantly lower BPD compared to HC and FL. The diff erence between BPD and HC
was 16.2 days (95%Cl 14.3–18.1; p = 0.001). Maternal age at delivery was 20 – 36 years (average 28.1; median 28.0).
Conclusions: According to our results, fetuses in the breech position have a signifi cantly lower BPD compared to
HC or FL. HC and FL parameters correlate with gestational age. In cases of ultrasonographic biometric discrepancy
between BPD and FL, the fetal position should be taken into account. Breech-presented fetuses have an elongated
head shape and ultrasound biometrics should evaluate its circumference (HC). It is important to responsibly interpret
the results so as not to stress the expecting mother with suspicions of fetal pathology.
Key words: Breech presentation/Ultrasound/Fetal head/Biometry/Breech head/ Dolichocephaly