Dear Colleagues,

Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is defined as the failure of a fetus to achieve its genetically determined intrauterine potential for growth and development due to compromised placental function. This serious obstetric problem affects 5-10% of pregnant women and manifests as a greater risk of perinatal morbidity and mortality, as well as long-term unfavorable consequences such as cognitive and learning impairments, motor and sensory neurodevelopmental deficits, and increased risk of endocrine, cardiovascular, renal, and immunological diseases later in life. FGR is the second most common reason for perinatal mortality, and the underlying cause of 30% of stillborn babies. FGR is also the most common cause of medically indicated preterm delivery and intrapartum asphyxia.

Currently, there is no gold standard definition and diagnostic criteria for this pregnancy complication. In addition, the underlying mechanisms behind FGR remain elusive, although considerable progress has been made over the past few years in elucidating its physiopathology and pathogenesis. The primary approach for prenatal diagnosis and management of FGR is fetal biometric measurements using ultrasound (US). However, US is unable to sufficiently differentiate between a definite growth-restricted fetus and a constitutionally small-for-gestational-age (SGA) fetus. Fetal Doppler US provides information on the fetal circulatory response to FGR and has been utilized to prevent serious fetal compromise in cases of high-risk pregnancy. Nonetheless, this procedure has insufficient diagnostic power without serial US examinations. Therefore, a robust and useful diagnostic tool is required for FGR pregnancies.

There is currently a lack of efficient treatment modalities to reverse or end the progression of placental insufficiency. This means that the assessment of fetal vitality and decisions concerning the delivery schedule are the primary approaches used to manage such pregnancies. However, the management of FGR is still challenging and the subject of ongoing debate amongst clinicians.

This special issue invites clinicians and authors to share their research and clinical experiences in an important and challenging area of global interest by submitting original investigations or review articles.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Süleyman Cemil Oğlak
Guest Editor