Thematic area: Infectious, non-communicable Disease and Nutrition Sub-Thematic: Diagnostic Methods Development and Evolution

Abstract

Obstetric sonographic assessment for the purpose of obtaining fetal biometric measurements to predict fetal weight has been integrated into the mainstream of obstetric practice during the past quarter century. As such, the ultrasonographic technique represents the newest and most technologically sophisticated method of obtaining birth weight estimations. Though this method has been used for decades, a little is known about its validity in our country. The objective of this study is to determine the correlation of ultrasonographic estimation of fetal weight and actual birth weight in Jimma University Specialized Hospital, from November 1- January 30, 2014 G.C Facility based cross sectional study was conducted in Jimma university specialized hospital from November – January 2014. Convenient sampling technique was used for sample selection. All pregnant women who came during the study period and fulfill the inclusion criteria were included in the study. Ultrasonographic estimation of fetal weight was done by radiology resident whereas the birth weight was measured by midwife nurse within one hour of delivery. Checklist was used for data collection, Epidata for data entry and SPSS version 20 for data analysis. Descriptive analysis, correlation and specificity and sensitivity were determined. Ultrasound estimated fetal weight (EFW) was calculated by a preprogrammed Hadlock formula. The EFW was compared to the actual birth weight at delivery. The data is presented using tables, graphs and narrative. Key words: ultrasonography, birth weight, Hadlock formula, Ethiopia.II