Does amniotic fluid index affect the accuracy of estimated fetal weight in preterm premature rupture of membranes?

• Published in: American journal of obstetrics and gynecology Vol. 165; no. 4 Pt 1; p. 1060
• Main Authors: Toohey, J S, Lewis, D F, Harding, J A, Crade, M, Asrat, T, Major, C A, Garite, T J, Porto, M
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01-10-1991
• Subjects: Amniotic Fluid; Birth Weight; Female; Fetal Membranes, Premature Rupture - diagnostic imaging; Humans; Oligohydramnios - diagnostic imaging; Pregnancy; Retrospective Studies; Ultrasonography
• ISSN: 0002-9378
• DOI: 10.1016/0002-9378(91)90470-C

Estimated fetal weights play a critical role in the management scheme of patients with preterm premature rupture of membranes but are often technically difficult to obtain in these patients because of low amniotic fluid volume. Previous studies have had conflicting data as to the accuracy of estimated fetal weights in preterm premature rupture of membranes. This study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of amniotic fluid index on the accuracy of estimated fetal weights in pregnancies complicated by preterm premature rupture of membranes. Over a 2-year period at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center, 98 patients with preterm premature rupture of membranes who had an ultrasonographic examination with estimated fetal weights and amniotic fluid index performed within 48 hours of delivery were identified and compared with a control group of 55 patients in preterm labor with normal amniotic fluid index for gestational age, also obtained within 48 hours of delivery. Shepard and Hadlock formulas were used to estimate fetal weight. Results were measured in percent error from the actual birth weight. All birth weights were less than 2000 gm. No statistical differences were identified. The value of amniotic fluid index did not affect the accuracy of predicted estimated fetal weight in preterm premature rupture of membranes. Predicted estimated fetal weight of patients with preterm premature rupture of membranes appears to be as accurate as predicted estimated fetal weight in pregnancies with normal amniotic fluid volumes.