Ultrasonic assessment of fetal colon by comparing ratios of colon circumference to abdominal circumference in normal pregnancy and two abnormal cases: A preliminary study

Fetal gastrointestinal malformations occur with an incidence of approximately 6/1, 000 births and can often be diagnosed in utero by ultrasound. Antenatal knowledge of these abnormalities can potentially decrease fetal and neonatal morbidity and mortality because the appropriate preparations can be made in advance of delivery. Changes in ultrasonic images of the fetal colon were measured by comparing ratios of colon circumference to abdominal circumference in 136 normal pregnancies. Normal values of these parameters are given for gestational age. Two abnormal case reports are included to exemplify the clinical applications.