Charts of fetal size: 1. Methodology.
OBJECTIVE
To discuss the features of study design and analysis which are necessary to derive valid reference centiles for fetal size. To describe a study which meets the stated criteria.


METHODS
Prospective study of 663 fetuses.


RESULTS
The selection of the sample and adequate sample size are of great importance. Prospective collection of data specifically for the purpose of deriving centiles is recommended. It is essential to use statistical methods that take proper account of the increasing variation among fetuses as pregnancy proceeds; such methods are described and illustrated. A study is described which meets the stated criteria for design and analysis, and from which new fetal size centile charts have been derived and are presented in subsequent papers.


CONCLUSIONS
Many published studies containing charts (standards) of fetal size are methodologically flawed. Research design and statistical analysis must adhere to sound principles for fitted centiles of size to be valid and so clinically relevant.
Altman
D G
DG
Medical Statistics Laboratory, Imperial Cancer Research Fund, London, UK.
Chitty
L S
LS
D000886:Anthropometry / Q000379:methods*; D003625:Data Collection; D005314:Embryonic and Fetal Development; D005333:Fetus / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D005865:Gestational Age; D006801:Humans; D008953:Models, Anatomic; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012016:Reference Values; D012107:Research Design