What is the purpose of measuring the femur length in obstetric ultrasound?

Measuring the femur length in obstetric ultrasound serves a crucial role in estimating gestational age. This method is particularly useful in the second and third trimesters when assessing fetal growth and development. The femur is one of the longest bones in the body, and its length correlates strongly with fetal age; as the fetus grows, so does the femur. By utilizing established reference charts based on population studies, sonographers can compare the measured femur length with expected values for particular gestational ages, providing valuable information to healthcare providers.

This measurement can help in confirming or adjusting the estimated due date, which can be essential for managing the pregnancy and planning delivery. Accurate estimation of gestational age is pivotal in assessing fetal development and making clinical decisions related to prenatal care.