Fetal Growth Restriction and the Presence of Late-Onset Preeclampsia with Severe Features: A Case-Control Study in a High-Complexity Hospital in Colombia

Introduction: Preeclampsia (PE) is one of the leading causes of maternal-fetal morbidity and mortality. In recent years, fetal growth restriction (FGR) has been suggested as a potential factor influencing PE severity, affecting both maternal progression and neonatal outcomes. However, the specific impact of FGR on the progression of late-onset PE has not been fully characterized. This study aims to analyze this interaction and its clinical relevance in obstetric decision-making.
Methodology: A case-control analytical observational study will be conducted. Cases will include patients with late onset PE with severe features, while controls will consist of patients with late-onset PE without severe features, in a 1:1 allocation ratio. To evaluate the association between FGR and the development of severe late-onset PE, odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) will be estimated. A stratified analysis will be performed to identify potential confounding factors. The data source will be the Institutional Preeclampsia Registry (RPP) of Hospital Universitario Mayor Méderi.

To determine the association between fetal growth restriction (FGR) and the severity of late-onset preeclampsia in patients managed at a tertiary-care hospital between 2019 and 2025.

This study aims to demonstrate that FGR is a key determinant of PE severity, justifying the need for enhanced monitoring in these cases. These findings could contribute to the development of personalized management strategies and the optimization of obstetric protocols focused on reducing maternal morbidity and mortality.