Fetal growth restriction

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Fetal growth restriction (FGR) or intrauterine growth restriction/retardation (IUGR ) is a condition where the fetus is unable to reach its genetically determined size (small as a result of a pathological process). The result can be a hypotrophic newborn (weight below the 10th percentile), but also a newborn with a normal birth weight (above the 10th percentile).[1]

The causes can be diverse, the most common arise as a result of pathologies of the placenta. Compared to normally growing individuals, they have increased morbidity and mortality (10 times higher risk of perinatal mortality). There is no cure. We strive for primary prevention of risk factors on the part of the mother (cessation of smoking, regular examinations). The correct timing of childbirth also plays an important role.[2]

Pathophysiology[edit | edit source]

Centralization of blood circulation occurs during hypoxia. This can cause ischemic damage to the intestine and the development of necrotizing enterocolitis, educed renal flow is often responsible for oligohydramnios, impaired lung growth for chronic lung diseases. Shortening of femur length at the beginning of the second trimester is an early indicator of growth restriction.

Venous return is also affected (flow through the ductus venosus increases during hypoxia). The consequence of this is a decrease in blood flow to the liver, which leads to damage to their functions and a breakdown in glycogen formation (slowing down the growth of the abdominal circumference). Reduced or absent flow in the ductus venosus during atrial systole is a late indicator of cardiac failure leading to intrauterine fetal death.[2]

Risk factors for FGR/IUGR[edit | edit source]

The physiological growth of the fetus requires an adequate supply of oxygen and nutrients mediated by the placenta. Disruption of placental regulation by endocrine agents can also limit fetal growth and development.

Consequences[edit | edit source]

Diagnostics[edit | edit source]

It is performed in the 36th week of pregnancy.

We will perform fetal biometrics (size and weight determination). We will determine the Doppler flow parameters by measuring the pulsatile index ( a. cerebri media , a. umbilicalis , ductus venosus and aa. uterinae ). We then assess the measured values ​​and create a biophysical profile of the fetus. This will give us information about any risks. And based on this, we can plan the next course of action (including early termination of pregnancy).

We use different examinations to diagnose a specific etiology (invasive diagnosis of structural abnormalities, maternal serology to detect teratogenic infections, exclusion of structural malformations on ultrasound, etc.).[2]

Links[edit | edit source]

Related articles[edit | edit source]

Reference[edit | edit source]

  1. JANOTA, Jan – STRAŇÁK, Zbyněk. Neonatologie. 1. edition. Praha : Mladá fronta, 2013. pp. 207-217. ISBN 978-80-204-2994-0.
  2. a b c d e RENNIE, JM. Textbook of Neonatology. 5. edition. Churchill Livingstone Elsevier, 2012. ISBN 978-0-7020-3479-4.