IUGR- Detection and management

Intrauterine growth restriction refers to condition in which a fetus is unable to grow to its genetically determined potential size to a degree that may effect the health of the fetus. It is considered that fetus is growth restricted if presents weight below two standard deviations of the expected weight for its gestational age or below the tenth percentile of the weight curve. It is a syndrome that corresponds to different, but interrelated causes. IUGR may be considered as the consequence of a disease process within three elements that sustain and regulate fetal growth - the maternal component, the placenta, or the fetus.
IUGR remains a challenging problem for obstetricians. Identifying this group of fetuses is important in order to have the opportunity to intervene. No single measurement or assessment helps to diagnose or exclude possible IUGR. Therefore, systematic approach, complex strategy and assessment are necessary. To reduce perinatal morbidity and mortality it is necessaiy to do serial ultrasound scans and investigate fetal well-being. If fetal hypoxia occurs, it should be detected as early as possible. This can be done by Doppler measurements of' fetal and uteroplacental blood flow.
Estimation of overall fetal growth, individual body parameters, amniotic fluid volume, and Doppler studies are useful in order to reduce perinatal and maternal morbidity and mortality.