Correlation of ultrasound placental diameter and thickness with gestational age

Background and Objectives: Estimation of fetal maturity is common in obstetric practice especially when the women do not keep accurate menstrual records. An accurate establishment of expected date of delivery is fundamental to the management of both high risk and normal pregnancies. The objective of this study was to determine the placental diameter (PD), placental thickness (PT) and to establish a correlation between PD, PT and gestational age. Methods: This is an observational cross-sectional study that examines by means of ultrasonography the correlation between placental diameter and thickness with gestational age in Enugu, South East, Nigeria. Results: A total of 400 healthy subjects were recruited in 3rd trimester of pregnancy having fulfilled the inclusion criteria. PD and PT in this study did not correlate with parity. There is a linear increase of gestational age and placental thickness and diameter. These increases heighten between 38th week gestation and 40 weeks' gestation. 205.0±1.4, 43.00±0.0 to 215.0±1.4, 46.00±2.8 respectively. Conclusion: Placental thickness and Placental diameter can be used to predict gestational age. It is therefore advised to use PT and PD in ultrasound obstetric assessment especially when Last menstrual period (LMP) is not clear. (author)