Impact of foetal growth restriction and being born small for gestational age on newborn echo- and electrocardiographic measurements-a Copenhagen baby heart study.

Aims: Foetal growth restriction (FGR) and being born small for gestational age (SGA) have been linked to later cardiovascular disease. We examined the impact of FGR and SGA on neonatal echo- and electrocardiographic measurements in the Copenhagen Baby Heart Study. Methods and results: The study included 26 175 newborns. Infants with FGR ( Conclusion: Newborns with FGR or SGA exhibited noteworthy cardiac changes, even after adjustment for body size. Follow-up studies are needed to determine the clinical significance of these findings for the later cardiovascular health. Key Question: Is inadequate foetal growth associated with subclinical changes to the infant heart that can be observed in the newborn using echo- and electrocardiography? Key finding: Foetal growth restriction and being born small for gestational age were associated with reductions in left ventricular thickness and diameter, changes in diastolic function, and alterations in electrocardiographic parameters. Growth-restricted newborns also had altered right ventricular function. Take-home message: Foetal growth restriction and being born small for gestational age are associated with alterations in cardiac structure and function, even after adjustment for body size and age. Follow-up examinations of these children should be considered.