The aim of this study was to determine the validity of fetal parameters measured by sonography, as an indicator of fetal lung maturity.
Materials and Methods:
The present cross-sectional study was conducted on pregnant women between 30- and 37-weeks’ gestation, who were at risk of preterm delivery and gave birth within the next 72 hours. Utilizing sonography, distal femoral epiphysis, placental grading, and free-floating particles in amniotic fluid were investigated. Upon birth, newborns were followed from birth and 72 hours postpartum, and those with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) were identified.
Results:
The diameter of distal femoral epiphysis in patients without RDS was significantly higher than in patients with RDS (p < .001). Moreover, there was a significant difference in placenta grading in patients with and without RDS (p = .046). However, the frequency of free-floating particles in the amniotic fluid, within the two groups was not significantly different (p = .106). The cutting point of the diameter of the distal femoral epiphysis was 2.20 mm (e.g., sensitivity 74%; specificity 89%).
Conclusion:
Based on the results obtained in this cohort study, measuring the diameter of the distal femoral epiphysis may have relatively good accuracy for gauging fetal lung maturity.
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