Delphi procedure for a consensus-based definition of fetal growth restriction (FGR)

If you are a specialist in FGR and you want to participate in the expert panel, please fill in the survey (link will follow).

Background

In 2016, a Delphi procedure was conducted to establish a definition for FGR. Consensus-based definitions for early-onset and late-onset FGR were agreed upon by experts. The definition distinguished between early and late FGR with a demarcation at 32 weeks of pregnancy and used repeated measurements and functional markers to assess placental health. Solitary parameters, severe abnormalities that alone indicate FGR, and contributory parameters, less severe abnormalities that need to be combined to indicate FGR, were identified.

How to proceed?

An important aspect of a Delphi consensus definition is the need to monitor its use in research and clinical practice, and to consider how the definition might be improved as new evidence emerges. Therefore, we recently investigated the impact and implementation of the FGR consensus definition, with results expected to be published in 2025. We also discussed future perspectives, the challenges of defining FGR, aspects to focus on and new evidence. We concluded that the Delphi procedure should be further evaluated and, if needed, repeated to update the definition, using evidence-based parameters as much as possible.

Therefore, the study team (principal investigators dr. Gordijn,  dr. Ganzevoort and prof. dr. Papageorghiou) is currently preparing to evaluate the need to adapt the definition, and if needed, to repeat the Delphi procedure. For this, we are looking for specialists in FGR who are willing to provide their expertise and opinion.

How to participate in the expert panel?

Specialist with a special focus on FGR are invited to provide their opinion participate in the expert panel. If you are interested to participate, please leave your contact details in the survey. Click here or scan the QR-code (link will follow).

Updates on this procedure will be shared on this page.

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