Abstract |
An abnormally decreased placental weight has been linked to increased perinatal complications, including intrauterine fetal demise (IUFD) and fetal growth restriction (IUGR). Despite its promise, determining placental weight prenatally using three-dimensional systems is time-consuming and requires expensive technology and expertise. We propose a novel method using two-dimensional sonography that provides an immediate estimation of placental volume. Placental volume was calculated in 29 third-trimester pregnancies using linear measurements of placental width, height, and thickness to calculate the convex-concave shell volume within 24 hours of birth. Data were analyzed to calculate Spearman's rho (r (s)) and significance. There was a significant correlation between estimated placental volume (EPV) and actual placental weight (r (s) = 0.80, P < 0.001). Subgroup analysis of preterm gestations ( N = 14) revealed an even more significant correlation of EPV to actual placental weight (r (s) = 0.89, P < 0.001). Placental weight can be accurately predicted by two-dimensional ultrasound with volumetric calculations. This method is simple, rapid, and accurate, making it practical for routine prenatal care, as well as for high-risk cases with decreased fetal movement and IUGR. Routine EPV surveillance may decrease the rates of perinatal complications and unexpected IUFD.
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Authors | Humberto Azpurua, Edmund F Funai, Luisa M Coraluzzi, Leo F Doherty, Isaac E Sasson, Merwin Kliman, Harvey J Kliman |
Journal | American journal of perinatology
(Am J Perinatol)
Vol. 27
Issue 2
Pg. 151-5
(Feb 2010)
ISSN: 1098-8785 [Electronic] United States |
PMID | 19653142
(Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)
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Copyright | Thieme Medical Publishers. |
Topics |
- Adult
- Female
- Fetal Growth Retardation
(diagnosis)
- Humans
- Models, Biological
- Organ Size
- Placenta
(anatomy & histology, diagnostic imaging)
- Pregnancy
- Pregnancy Trimester, Third
- Prospective Studies
- Reproducibility of Results
- Ultrasonography
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