Fetoscopy

Overview of Fetoscopy

Fetoscopy is like a special window that lets doctors see and help your baby while it’s still growing inside you. It’s an amazing tool that can make a big difference in your baby’s health. Fetoscopy is typically performed during the second or third trimester of pregnancy.

The procedure begins with an ultrasound to guide the insertion of the fetoscope into the uterus. A thin, flexible tube called a fetoscope into the uterus through a small incision in the abdomen or through the cervix. This tube is equipped with a camera that allows doctors to see inside the uterus and assess the health of the fetus. The procedure can also facilitate interventions, such as taking biopsies or treating conditions like twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome or congenital diaphragmatic hernia. Depending on the specific condition being treated, various techniques may be employed:

Biopsy: A tissue sample may be taken for further analysis.
Laser Treatment: In cases like twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, lasers can be used to seal off abnormal blood vessels.
Balloon Placement: For congenital diaphragmatic hernia, a balloon may be placed in the fetal airway to promote lung growth.

The entire process usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour and is performed under local anesthesia or sedation.

Different Types of Fetoscopy

Diagnostic Fetoscopy: This is when doctors use the fetoscope just to look at the baby and check if everything is okay. It’s like giving the baby a check-up while it’s still in the womb.
Therapeutic Fetoscopy: This type is used when doctors need to do something to help the baby. For example, they might need to fix a problem with the placenta or umbilical cord.
Laser Fetoscopy: This is a special kind of therapeutic fetoscopy. Doctors use a laser attached to the fetoscope to treat specific conditions, like when twins share a placenta in a way that’s not healthy.

Who Requires Fetoscopy?

Fetoscopy isn’t something that every pregnant woman needs. It’s a special procedure that doctors suggest only in certain situations. Here’s who might need it:

Mothers carrying twins or triplets, especially if the babies are sharing a placenta
Babies who might have a birth defect that can be treated before birth
When doctors need to get a closer look at the baby to check for certain health conditions

Fetoscopy is usually suggested when:

Regular ultrasounds show something that needs a closer look
There’s a family history of certain genetic conditions
The pregnancy is considered high-risk for other reasons

Exclusion Criteria

Not all women are suitable candidates for fetoscopy. Those who may not qualify include:

Women with certain pregnancy complications that increase risks.
Pregnancies where fetal conditions are deemed non-treatable.

Alternatives to Fetoscopy

Before considering fetoscopy, healthcare providers may recommend non-invasive diagnostic techniques such as detailed ultrasounds or genetic testing. In some cases, close monitoring without intervention may be appropriate.

Why Is Fetoscopy Conducted?

To See Clearly: Sometimes, ultrasounds can’t show everything doctors need to see. Fetoscopy gives them a clear, direct view of the baby.
To Diagnose Problems: It helps doctors spot health issues that the baby might have before birth.
To Treat Conditions: Some problems can be fixed while the baby is still in the womb, and fetoscopy makes this possible.

Benefits of Addressing Fetal Conditions

Timely intervention through fetoscopy can lead to:

Improved health outcomes for the fetus.
Reduced risk of complications at birth.
Better preparedness for any necessary postnatal care.

What to Expect?

Before the Procedure

Preparation for fetoscopy typically involves:

Consultations: Discuss medical history and potential risks with your healthcare provider.

Tests:

Detailed ultrasounds to assess fetal health.
Blood tests as needed.
Medication Adjustments: You may be advised to avoid certain medications before the procedure.

During the Procedure

Anesthesia: You’ll be given either local or general anesthesia to ensure you’re comfortable.
Cleaning: Your belly will be cleaned with a special solution to prevent infection.
Ultrasound Guidance: The doctor will use an ultrasound to find the best spot to insert the fetoscope.
Fetoscope Insertion: A small cut will be made in your belly, and the fetoscope will be carefully inserted.
Procedure: The doctor will perform the necessary checks or treatments while watching on a screen.
Closure: Once finished, the fetoscope is removed, and the small cut is closed with a stitch or special tape.

After the Procedure

Monitoring in a recovery area until anesthesia wears off.
Managing any discomfort with pain relievers as needed.
Instructions on activity restrictions and follow-up appointments.

Recovery After Fetoscopy

Recovery from fetoscopy varies by individual but generally includes:

Resting at home for several days post-procedure.
Gradually returning to normal activities within one week.
Monitoring for any signs of complications, such as contractions or bleeding.

Most women can expect their pregnancy to continue normally after recovery unless further interventions are required.

Risks or Complications

While fetoscopy is considered safe, it does carry some risks, including:

Infection at the incision site.
Fetal loss or preterm delivery in rare cases.

Patients need to understand that while these complications are possible, they are uncommon and manageable with proper care.

Benefits of Fetoscopy

The expected positive outcomes from fetoscopy include:

Early Diagnosis: It can identify problems early in pregnancy, allowing for better planning and treatment.
In-Womb Treatment: Some conditions can be treated before birth, improving the baby’s health outcomes.
Detailed Information: It provides more detailed information than ultrasounds alone, helping parents and doctors make informed decisions.
Improved Outcomes: For certain conditions, fetoscopy can significantly improve the baby’s chances of survival and good health.
Peace of Mind: Even when no treatment is needed, the detailed view of the baby can provide reassurance to worried parents.
Advancement in Medical Care: Fetoscopy has revolutionized prenatal care, allowing for treatments that were not possible before.
Minimally Invasive: Compared to open fetal surgery, fetoscopy is much less invasive and has a quicker recovery time.

Conclusion

Fetoscopy is a remarkable advance in prenatal care that allows doctors to diagnose and sometimes treat conditions before a baby is even born. While the idea of any procedure during pregnancy can be scary, understanding fetoscopy can help you feel more prepared and confident.

Remember, fetoscopy is only recommended when it’s believed to be the best option for you and your baby. It has helped many babies have a healthier start in life. With the right care and information, you can approach this procedure with confidence, knowing you’re doing the best for your little one.

Why Choose Apollo Hospitals for This Procedure?

Apollo Hospitals stands as a pioneer in healthcare in India, renowned for its commitment to patient care and advanced medical technologies. The hospital’s focus on innovative treatments like fetoscopy reflects its dedication to improving maternal-fetal health outcomes across India.

Choosing Apollo Hospitals for your fetoscopy procedure means choosing a healthcare partner dedicated to your and your baby’s wellbeing. With our combination of experienced specialists, advanced technology, and patient-centered care, you can feel confident that you’re in the best hands for this important procedure.

Remember, your health and your baby’s health are invaluable. When you choose Apollo Hospitals, you’re not just selecting a hospital – you’re choosing a legacy of excellence in healthcare, especially in the field of maternal and fetal medicine.