Doppler Vascular Changes in Intrauterine Growth Restriction

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) secondary to placental insufficiency is a major cause of perinatal morbidity and mortality in the United States. Historically, Doppler changes occurring in IUGR fetuses play an important role in the diagnosis and management of these fetuses, and now, based on these changes, we have proposed a staging system for IUGR fetuses that demonstrates prognostic value. This manuscript also summarizes a practical classification for IUGR fetuses. We believe that future studies should differentiate among the different types of IUGR fetuses.