Normal range of fetal finger movements.

Abstract

A congenital limitation of finger movements is associated with many syndromes that interfere with child well-being. The normal range of fetal finger movements during the second and third trimester is unknown. The aim of this study was to measure the normal range. In this study, fetal finger flexion and extension were examined during routine ultrasound screening in 260 consecutive normal fetuses at gestational age 16-41 weeks. Full extension and flexion of the fingers were noted in 110 fetuses examined at 16-26 weeks. Of the 150 fetuses examined at 27-41 weeks, full flexion and extension were noted in 118 (78.7%), full flexion and partial extension in 30 (20%), and full flexion without extension in two (1.3%). Knowledge of the normal range of fetal finger movements will assist clinicians in the prenatal diagnosis of other anomalies and syndromes.