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Fetal Clavicle Length Measurement by Ultrasound

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A fetal clavicle length measurement is an ultrasound measurement of the collarbone of a developing baby, used to help assess fetal growth and development.

Quick summary

["This ultrasound measurement helps providers evaluate fetal growth and proportions, but it is one part of the overall obstetric assessment."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
11962-8
Short code
Fet Clavicle Length US.meas
Synonyms
Fet Clavicle Length US.meas
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
us-measured
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

The clavicle is the collarbone. During a prenatal ultrasound, the sonographer identifies the fetal clavicle and measures its length on the image. The result is a measurement in length units such as millimeters, recorded in the ultrasound report.

Why It May Be Done

Clavicle length can be measured as part of a detailed fetal anatomy or growth assessment. Providers may compare it with other fetal measurements and with expected norms for the stage of pregnancy to help judge growth and proportions.

How the Measurement Is Taken

This is a noninvasive ultrasound measurement done through the mother's abdomen, usually during a routine or targeted obstetric ultrasound. There is no needle, no radiation, and no special preparation specific to this measurement; follow your clinic's general ultrasound instructions.

What the Results Mean

The reported length is interpreted alongside gestational age and other fetal measurements. Expected values vary with stage of pregnancy and by reference standard, so no single number applies to everyone. Your provider will explain how your baby's measurement compares with expected values.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Fetal clavicle length

Frequently asked questions

Does this measurement hurt the baby or mother?
No. It uses standard abdominal ultrasound, which is noninvasive and does not involve needles or radiation.
Can I see a normal number for clavicle length?
Expected values depend on gestational age and the reference standard used by the imaging center, so there is no universal number. Your provider can explain how your baby's measurement compares.
Does an unusual clavicle length mean something is wrong?
Not necessarily. A single measurement is interpreted with other fetal measurements and the whole clinical picture. Your provider may recommend follow-up imaging or further evaluation if needed.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy