Placental grading is a system that classifies the appearance of the placenta on ultrasound into grades 0 through 3, reflecting its level of maturity and calcification. A grade 0 placenta appears homogeneous with a smooth chorionic plate and is typical of early pregnancy. Grade 1 shows subtle undulations and scattered echogenic areas. Grade 2 shows more pronounced indentations and comma-shaped calcifications within the substance. Grade 3, the most mature, shows complete indentations that reach the basal plate and significant calcification. Premature aging of the placenta (reaching grade 3 before 37 weeks) may be associated with placental insufficiency and fetal growth restriction. However, placental grading has become less emphasized in modern practice as other assessment tools provide more reliable information about placental function.
Sonography Term