Fetal Growth Restriction: A Pragmatic Approach

Abstract

An accurate diagnosis of fetal growth restriction relies on a precise estimation of gestational age based on a carefully obtained history as well as early ultrasound, since a difference of just a few days can lead to a significant error. There is a continuum of risk for adverse outcome that depends on the certainty of dates and presence or absence of comorbidities, in addition to the estimated fetal weight percentile and the umbilical artery waveform. The results of several studies, most notably the TRUFFLE trial, demonstrate that optimal management of fetal growth restriction with an abnormal umbilical artery waveform requires daily electronic fetal heart rate monitoring, and this monitoring does not require computerized interpretation. The role of ductus venosus waveform, biophysical profile, and middle cerebral artery waveform is less clear, and the results of these three modalities should be interpreted with caution.

Key Points

• A correct diagnosis of fetal growth restriction requires a very precise estimate of gestational age.

• In the presence of abnormal umbilical artery Doppler, the cornerstone of surveillance is daily electronic fetal heart rate monitoring.

• Surveillance with biophysical profile, ductus venosus waveform, and middle cerebral artery waveform are less important than daily electronic fetal heart rate monitoring.

Keywords

fetal growth restriction - ductus venosus waveform - feta heart rate monitoring - biophysical profile - middle cerebral artery waveform

Publication History

Received: 26 October 2024

Accepted: 20 November 2024

Accepted Manuscript online:
25 November 2024

Article published online:
24 December 2024

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