Perinatal outcome of Growth-Restricted Fetuses with Abnormal Umbilical Artery Doppler in a Tertiary Referral Hospital in Bangladesh

Background: Fetal growth restriction (FGR) remains a major cause of perinatal morbidity and mortality, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Umbilical artery (UA) Doppler velocimetry is an established non-invasive tool for assessing placental insufficiency, yet prospective outcome data from resource-limited settings are limited. Objectives: To evaluate perinatal outcomes of growth-restricted fetuses with abnormal umbilical artery Doppler findings compared with those with normal Doppler studies in a tertiary referral hospital in Bangladesh. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted from March 2022 to August 2023 at a tertiary referral hospital in Bangladesh. Singleton pregnancies of ≥28 weeks’ gestation with antenatally diagnosed FGR were enrolled and categorized based on UA Doppler findings. Maternal, neonatal, and perinatal outcomes up to seven postnatal days were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25. Results: Among 47 mother–infant dyads, 28 (59.6%) had abnormal UA Doppler findings. Baseline maternal and neonatal characteristics were comparable between groups. Neonates in the abnormal Doppler group had higher rates of NICU admission, respiratory distress, sepsis, feed intolerance, and perinatal mortality. Acute kidney injury occurred significantly more often in the abnormal Doppler group (25% vs. 0%; p=0.032). Conclusion: Abnormal umbilical artery Doppler findings in growth-restricted fetuses are associated with increased risk of adverse perinatal outcomes, particularly neonatal acute kidney injury. Early identification and close postnatal monitoring are essential. Larger studies are needed to further define outcome patterns in resource-limited settings. J Com Med Col Teachers’ Asso July 2026; 30(2): 79-81