Timing delivery of the growth-restricted fetus

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is commonly defined as an estimated fetal weight of less than the 10th percentile. While 70% of these are small for normal reasons and not at risk, 30% are pathologically small at risk for numerous complications including fetal death. In the late preterm IUGR fetus (>34 weeks), prematurity risks less and the risk of fetal demise becomes the primary concern. Pulsed-wave Doppler interrogation of the umbilical and middle cerebral artery is useful in reducing perinatal mortality, however, Doppler changes in these vessels of the IUGR fetus may not occur after 34 weeks gestation. There are no randomized trials addressing the timing of delivery of the IUGR fetus in the late preterm or early-term period. However, retrospective reports show an increase risk of fetal demise. While timing the delivery of the late preterm/early-term IUGR fetus requires consideration of multiple factors (e.g. degree of growth restriction, etiology, amniotic fluid volume, and biophysical and Doppler testing), available data suggests that delivery should occur by 37 to 38 weeks for singleton IUGR fetuses. In twin pregnancies with a co-twin IUGR fetus, chorionicity also impacts timing of delivery, but delivery should occur by 34-36 weeks.