Fetal Clavicle Length Measurement
This test measures the length of your baby’s clavicle (collarbone) during pregnancy. It helps evaluate fetal development and identify potential growth concerns.
["A clavicle length check can help monitor your baby’s size and health during pregnancy."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 53677-1
- Short code
- Fet Clavicle-R Length US.meas
- Synonyms
- Fet Clavicle-R 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
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’re at higher risk for certain birth complications, such as preterm labor or low birth weight. It’s also used in cases where fetal growth appears slower than expected on ultrasound. This test is typically performed during a prenatal ultrasound.
What Does the Test Involve?
The test is a non-invasive ultrasound procedure. A technician uses sound waves to measure the length of your baby’s clavicle. You’ll likely lie on your back or side, and the technician will apply a gel to your abdomen to improve the image quality.
What Should You Expect Before the Test?
No special preparation is needed. You may want to drink plenty of fluids beforehand to help your bladder stay full, which can improve the ultrasound image. Wear comfortable clothing and remove any jewelry or accessories that might interfere with the scan.
What Happens During the Test?
You’ll lie on your back or side as the technician moves a handheld device called a transducer over your abdomen. The transducer emits sound waves that create images of your baby’s bones and organs. The technician will focus on measuring the clavicle length, which may take a few minutes.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Fetal clavicle length can provide important clues about fetal development. Abnormal measurements may signal conditions like intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) or other growth-related issues. While clavicle length alone isn’t definitive, it’s often used alongside other ultrasound measurements to assess overall fetal health and guide further monitoring.
Short name
Clavicle Length Assessment
Frequently asked questions
How is this test different from a standard ultrasound?
Will this test affect my pregnancy?
What if my baby’s clavicle length is different from expected?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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