Ultrasonic Determination of Fetal Maturity at Repeat Cesarean Section

In 75 patients who had elective repeat cesarean section fetal biparietal diameter was measured serially by ultrasonography to determine the optimum time for operation. When the fetal biparietal diameter had reached 8.7 cm or more before elective repeat cesarean section, the incidence of prematurity was zero, based on a 2500-9 birth weight. Available information suggests that fetal biparietal diameter is an accurate index of fetal maturity, unless fetal growth retardation is severe and prolonged. This study indicates that serial sonographic measurement of fetal biparietal diameter before all repeat cesarean sections is an effective way to decrease the rate of iatrogenic prematurity associated with the procedure.