Intrauterine growth restriction: An approach to the diagnosis, follow-up and management

Intrauterine growth restriction has a multifactorial origin and can be caused by a variety of pathologies in the mother, fetus or placenta, representing high rates of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Therefore, it is important to accurately diagnose this condition in order to focus in the follow and management, which can reduce the complications associated with the disease. Objective: To perform a detailed and up to date review of the etiology, diagnostic criteria, follow up with Doppler ultrasonography and management of intrauterine growth restriction. Methods: A literature search was done in English and Spanish in databases such us PubMed/MEDLINE, Ovid, MDconsult using the following key words: intrauterine growth restriction, small for gestational age fetus, fetal circulation, Doppler ultrasonography. Also national statistics for intrauterine growth restriction were used, obtaining 61 documents. The information obtained was classified and used in the development of this review. Results: The available studies are presented, and recommended revisions to the evaluation of patients with IUGR, additionally those that provide new information regarding the diagnosis, evaluation of fetal circulation, monitoring and management of this clinical entity. Conclusion: Intrauterine growth restriction is a pathology with a frequent diagnosis an represents high rates of perinatal morbidity and mortality. Early identification of these fetuses and adequate monitoring by Doppler evaluation allow reducing adverse outcomes and consequences in the short and long term.