Summary: Ultrasound biometry of the head in breech presented foetuses.
Objective: Comparison of foetal ultrasonographic biometric parameters of the head (head circumference – HC, biparietal diameter – BPD) in breech presented foetuses.
Method: Ultrasound biometry was performed in accordance with the method presented in the reference tables. In all breech presented foetuses, 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 and 38th week of gestation. Foetuses in the breech position had a signifi cantly lower BPD compared to HC and FL. The difference 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, foetuses 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 foetal position should be taken into account. Breech-presented foetuses 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 foetal pathology.
Key words: breech presentation – ultrasound – foetal head – biometry – breech head – dolichocephaly
THE FETAL MEDICINE CENTRE
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Palacky University Olomouc, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry
University Hospital Olomouc
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