Fetal growth restriction, also called intrauterine growth restriction or IUGR, occurs when a fetus fails to achieve its genetically determined growth potential. It is typically diagnosed when the estimated fetal weight falls below the 10th percentile for gestational age, particularly when accompanied by abnormal Doppler findings. Ultrasound is the primary tool for diagnosing and monitoring this condition through serial biometry and Doppler evaluation of the umbilical artery, middle cerebral artery, and ductus venosus. Abnormal Doppler patterns, such as absent or reversed end-diastolic flow in the umbilical artery, indicate placental dysfunction and help guide decisions about timing of delivery.
Sonography Term