A search of the literature was conducted on three databases (Pub Med, the Cochrane Library, EMBASE from 1980 to June 2002) using the subject headings: infant, (premature, very low birthweight), anthropometry, growth, birthweight, head, cephalometry, gestational age, newborn, and reference values. Articles selected included surveys of intrauterine and post term growth. Reference lists of relevant articles were searched.
To improve on the Babson graph, two types of data were needed: infant size measured at the time of birth for the intrauterine section and term infant measurements for the post-term section. Population studies with large sample sizes were preferred to improve generalizability. The World Health Organization has recommended that gestational age of infants be described as completed weeks [7 (link)], so data stated in this manner were favored. Numerical data were preferred over graphic depiction to ensure accuracy.
To improve on the Babson graph, two types of data were needed: infant size measured at the time of birth for the intrauterine section and term infant measurements for the post-term section. Population studies with large sample sizes were preferred to improve generalizability. The World Health Organization has recommended that gestational age of infants be described as completed weeks [7 (link)], so data stated in this manner were favored. Numerical data were preferred over graphic depiction to ensure accuracy.
