Inter-observer variation in symphysis-fundus measurements. A plea for individualised antenatal care.
Two groups of midwives were compared with regard to ability to detect small-for-gestational-age (SGA) babies using symphysis-fundus (S-F) measurements. The patients were all low-risk obstetric patients. In group A 2 midwives provided antenatal care to 97 patients; 14 delivered SGA babies, of which 12 were identified by S-F measurements (sensitivity 85.7%). In group B 15 midwives provided antenatal care to 126 patients, 12 delivered SGA babies, and 5 of these were identified (sensitivity 41.2%). It is considered that this difference was due to inter-observer variability. A plea is made for individualised antenatal care.
Pattinson
R C
RC
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Stellenbosch, Parowvallei, CP.
Theron
G B
GB
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007236:Infant, Small for Gestational Age; D008880:Midwifery / Q000592:standards*; D015588:Observer Variation; D011247:Pregnancy; D011295:Prenatal Care / Q000592:standards*; D011631:Pubic Symphysis / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D014599:Uterus / Q000033:anatomy & histology*