ELFIGOLung Function in Infants with Intrauterine Growth Restriction

This study focuses on babies who are smaller or grow less than expected during pregnancy, a condition known as fetal growth restriction (FGR). FGR is diagnosed by ultrasound and can lead to short- and long-term respiratory problems, especially when diagnosed before 32 weeks of pregnancy. The study aims to understand the link between certain parameters assessed during pregnancy, such as lung volumes, diaphragm thickness, and cardiac kinetics, and any respiratory complications in the first years of life. The study involves two groups: fetuses and preterm infants with a history of FGR, and preterm infants without a history of FGR. The study is important as it could help improve care and address challenges related to FGR and respiratory issues in preterm infants. Pregnant women with fetuses diagnosed with FGR are monitored closely, with weekly ultrasounds and other tests to check fetal well-being. After birth, the child's respiratory function is assessed during hospitalization and in subsequent outpatient visits. These assessments include respiratory function tests at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months of corrected age. The study also collects routine clinical data from the child's medical record. For preterm infants without FGR, similar data is collected after obtaining informed consent. The study measures outcomes such as the need for respiratory support at 36 weeks post-menstrual age, occurrence of death during NICU admission or afterwards, and lung function data from certain tests.