Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is most commonly caused by placental insufficiency, in response to which the fetus adapts its circulation to preserve oxygen and nutrient supply to the brain (‘brain-sparing’).

What happens during head sparing?

Foetal cerebral redistribution or ‘brain-sparing’ is a diagnosis in foetal medicine. It is characterised by preferential flow of blood towards the brain at the expense of the other vital organs, and it occurs as a haemodynamic adaptation in foetuses which have placental insufficiency.

Can IUGR cause brain damage?

Brain injury in intrauterine growth restricted (IUGR) infants is a major contributing factor to morbidity and mortality worldwide. Adverse outcomes range from mild learning difficulties, to attention difficulties, neurobehavioral issues, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and other cognitive and psychiatric disorders.