Fetal growth restriction: current knowledge to the general Obs/Gyn

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Perinatal Medicine
• Fetal Medicine

Background:

• Fetal growth restriction (FGR) impacts 5-10% of pregnancies.
• FGR is the second leading cause of perinatal mortality.
• This review synthesizes current knowledge on FGR.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present recent knowledge on fetal growth restriction.
• To focus on FGR concept, etiology, classification, diagnosis, management, and prognosis.

Main Methods:

• Literature search conducted in PubMed, Embase, and Lilacs databases.
• Search term used: "fetal growth restriction".

Main Results:

• FGR classification includes type I (symmetric, early onset, proportional growth reduction, often chromosomal), type II (asymmetric, late onset, abdominal reduction, often placental insufficiency), and type III (mixed, early onset, infections/toxins).
• Diagnosis relies on clinical assessment, ultrasound, and Doppler studies for monitoring.
• No definitive treatment exists; optimal timing of pregnancy termination is critical.

Conclusions:

• Early FGR diagnosis is vital for etiological identification.
• Adequate monitoring of fetal vitality minimizes risks.
• Minimizing risks of prematurity and intrauterine hypoxia is essential.