Improving how we assess fetal growth restriction using 3D blood flow measurements.

3D Umbilical Venous Blood Flow - A New Paradigm for Improving the Assessment of Fetal Growth Restriction.

['FUNDING_R01'] · BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE · NIH-10613412

This study is testing a new way to check how well a baby is growing in the womb by using 3D ultrasound to look at blood flow in the umbilical cord, which could help doctors better understand if a baby is small for health reasons or just naturally small, making it easier to keep an eye on babies who might be at risk.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorBAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10613412 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates a new method for assessing fetal growth restriction (FGR) by using 3D sonography to measure umbilical venous blood flow. Traditional methods have struggled to accurately differentiate between fetuses that are small due to health risks and those that are simply small by nature. By employing advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to provide more reliable measurements of blood flow, which could lead to better monitoring and outcomes for at-risk fetuses. The approach combines color flow Doppler ultrasound with a specialized transducer to quantify blood flow without needing complex calculations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant individuals whose fetuses are suspected to be at risk for growth restriction.

Not a fit: Patients with fetuses that are not at risk for growth restriction or those with significant fetal anomalies may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved detection and management of fetal growth restriction, ultimately enhancing infant health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for fetal assessment, suggesting that this approach may yield significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

HOUSTON, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cardiovascular Diseases, cardiovascular disorder

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.