Cephalic Index: A Fetal Gestational Age Dependent Biometric Parameter

Authors

  • emmanuel stephen mador
  • HY Goncim Department of Anatomy, University of Jos
  • IC Pam Department of Obstet & Gynaecology, University of Jos
  • JT Mutihir Department of Obstet & Gynaecology, University of Jos
  • GI Adoga Department of Biochemistry, University of Jos
  • JO Ogunranti Department of Anatomy, University of Jos

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v1i2.3145

Keywords:

Cranial dimensions, Cephalic index, Brachycephalic

Abstract

Objective: There is limited data on fetal cranial dimensions of Nigerian population. This is important because the study of normal and abnormal growth of children has become an increasingly important part of the practice and research in all fields related to child health; more so that prenatal and postnatal growth is one continuous process.
Material & Methods: In a cross-sectional study conducted on 13,740 Nigerian fetuses ranging from 12 weeks to 42 weeks at the Centre for Reproductive Health Research Jos; biparietal diameter and occipitofrontal diameter were measured using ultrasound machine in order to calculate fetal cephalic index. The values were statistically analyzed after deriving the relevant indices.
Results: The regression equation was calculated between gestational age and cephalic index of fetuses of Nigerian women. This equation y = 1.3x + 59.88; showed a linear relationship which was stronger from 12 to 16 weeks of gestation. Above 16 weeks gestation, the relationship was found to be quite weak. Coefficient of correlation is r2 = 0.9844 (p < 0.0001).
Conclusion: The fetal skulls were found to be mesocephalic in the early weeks and brachycephalic at term.

Key Words: Cranial dimensions; Cephalic index; Brachycephalic

DOI: 10.3126/ajms.v1i2.3145

Asian Journal of Medical Sciences 1 (2010) 45-48

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Author Biography

emmanuel stephen mador

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Published

2011-01-14

How to Cite

mador, emmanuel stephen, Goncim, H., Pam, I., Mutihir, J., Adoga, G., & Ogunranti, J. (2011). Cephalic Index: A Fetal Gestational Age Dependent Biometric Parameter. Asian Journal of Medical Sciences, 1(2), 45–48. https://doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v1i2.3145

Issue

Vol. 1 No. 2 (2010)

Section

Original Articles

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