ACR Appropriateness Criteria® growth disturbances - risk of intrauterine growth restriction

Carolyn M Zelop1, Marcia C Javitt, Phyllis Glanc

  • 1Valley Hospital, Paramus, NJ 07652, USA. cmzelop@comcast.net

Ultrasound Quarterly
|July 23, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Fetal growth disturbances, including intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), are identified by estimated fetal weight below the 10th percentile or growth plateaus. Uteroplacental insufficiency is a key cause, potentially leading to fetal hypoxia and acidosis.

Area of Science:

  • Perinatology
  • Fetal Medicine
  • Obstetrics

Background:

  • Fetal growth disturbances encompass fetuses at risk for intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR).
  • IUGR is characterized by estimated fetal weight below the 10th percentile or a growth plateau.
  • Uteroplacental insufficiency is a significant etiological factor, potentially causing fetal hypoxia and acidosis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To summarize the understanding of fetal growth disturbances and their assessment.
  • To highlight the role of uteroplacental insufficiency in IUGR.
  • To outline methods for assessing fetal well-being in at-risk pregnancies.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current medical literature on fetal growth disturbances.
  • Application of the modified Delphi consensus methodology by a multidisciplinary expert panel.
  • Analysis of evidence to rate the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures.

Main Results:

  • Fetuses at risk for IUGR face potential intrauterine environmental hostility.
  • Fetal hypoxia and acidosis are potential consequences of IUGR.
  • Established methods for assessing fetal well-being include biophysical profile, Doppler velocimetry, fetal heart rate monitoring, and fetal movement counting.

Conclusions:

  • Fetal growth disturbances require careful monitoring and assessment.
  • Uteroplacental insufficiency is a critical factor in IUGR etiology.
  • Evidence-based guidelines, like the ACR Appropriateness Criteria®, aid in managing these conditions.

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