A uniform management approach to optimize outcome in fetal growth restriction

Abstract

A uniform approach to the diagnosis and management of fetal growth restriction (FGR) consistently produces better outcome, prevention of unanticipated stillbirth, and appropriate timing of delivery. Early-onset and late-onset FGR represent two distinct clinical phenotypes of placental dysfunction. Management challenges in early-onset FGR revolve around prematurity and coexisting maternal hypertensive disease, whereas in late-onset disease failure of diagnosis or surveillance leading to unanticipated stillbirth is the primary issue. Identifying the surveillance tests that have the highest predictive accuracy for fetal acidemia and establishing the appropriate monitoring interval to detect fetal deterioration is a high priority.

Keywords: Biophysical profile score; Fetal Doppler; Fetal acidemia; Fetal growth restriction; Fetal testing; Middle cerebral artery; Neonatal outcome; Umbilical artery.