About this Study

The TIGER study is focused on understanding the health of babies who experience growth restrictions in the womb.
​This study involves utilizing MRI technology to investigate the brain pathways that are at risk due to reduced oxygen levels and brain sparing  - a condition where blood flow is redirected to preserve the brain when the fetus is under stress.  
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What is IntraUterine Growth Restriction?

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is where a fetus does not grow at the expected rate during pregnancy. This condition often results in a baby being born with a low birth weight compared to normal gestational age milestones. IUGR can occur due to various factors, including maternal health issues, placental problems, or genetic abnormalities, and it may lead to complications during delivery and various long-term health issues for the child.

Why is it important?

Currently, doctors have to make a tough decision on when to deliver growth restricted babies. Delivering too early or too late can lead to complications. 

Results from the TIGER study can provide clinicians with more information on brain development in growth restricted fetuses, and can lead to more precisely timed deliveries to improve long-term health outcomes in these babies. 
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OVERALL GOAL

The main goal is to use MRI technology to better understand brain development of babies who are not growing as expected in the womb. By gaining advanced insights into how these babies' brains are developing, the study aims to help doctors decide the best time to deliver these babies. This could greatly improve the chances of these babies having healthier starts to life, preventing serious health issues and improving their overall development as they grow.

ELIGIBILITY
You may be eligible to participate if you are: 

- 18+ years old
- Pregnant with 1 baby
- Third trimester of pregnancy
- Clinical diagnosis of growth restriction

You will be compensated for your time. 

What happens during this study?

This study will involve 2 MRI scans in the third trimester and 2 postnatal MRI for the baby, one at 3 months and one at 12-15 months. 
There will also be some questionnaires collecting demographic information, and to assess perceived stress. Additionally, there will be questionnaires to assess developmental progress in the baby.  
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How long is the study?

Each MRI will take about 40-60 minutes. The total time including set up will be about 1.25 hours.
​If you would like to participate in this study, please contact:
​
Emily Nichols
[email protected]

Emma Duerden 
[email protected]

​519-661-2111 ext. 88694