Fetal surgery, also known as in-utero or prenatal surgery, is a complex surgical intervention performed on an unborn baby (fetus) in the uterus (in utero) to treat specific birth defects and improve long-term outcomes. This type of surgery is typically done by a team of experts in comprehensive health centers with fetal surgery expertise and experience. Fetal surgery aims to address and improve conditions that may worsen as the fetus develops.
Some common types of birth defects that can be treated through fetal surgery include:
- Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH): Fetoscopic endoluminal tracheal occlusion (FETO) is a method used for severe cases of CDH.
- Spina bifida: In utero open or fetoscopic repair of myelomeningocele, the most severe form of spina bifida, can be performed.
- Sacrococcygeal teratoma (SCT): Open fetal surgery for SCT resection may be necessary in some cases.
- Congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation (CCAM) of the lung: Open fetal surgery can be done to remove CCAM of the lung.
- Bladder obstruction: Fetal vesicoamniotic shunt (VAS) and fetal cystoscopy are procedures used to address bladder obstruction.
Other methods for treating various conditions include shunt placements and early intervention using fetal techniques. Fetal surgery is a highly complex intervention that requires expert care for both the mother and the unborn baby. It is typically performed in specialized health care centers with the necessary expertise and experience.
