Fetal surgery
Fetal Surgery
Fetal surgery (pronunciation: /ˈfiːtəl ˈsɜːrʒəri/) is a highly specialized surgical intervention to treat birth defects in fetuses who are still in the uterine environment. This procedure is typically performed during the second or third trimester of pregnancy.
Etymology
The term "fetal surgery" is derived from the Latin "fetus" meaning offspring, and the Greek "cheirourgia" meaning hand work or surgery.
History
Fetal surgery was first performed in the 1980s, and has since evolved with advancements in technology and medical knowledge. The first successful fetal surgery was performed by Dr. Michael R. Harrison and his team at the University of California, San Francisco.
Procedure
Fetal surgery procedures vary depending on the specific condition being treated. However, most involve the use of ultrasound imaging to guide the surgeon's instruments. Some procedures may be performed using laparoscopy, while others may require a full laparotomy.
Conditions Treated
Fetal surgery can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including spina bifida, congenital diaphragmatic hernia, and twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome. The goal of fetal surgery is to correct or alleviate these conditions before birth, improving the chances of survival and quality of life for the fetus.
Risks and Complications
Like all surgical procedures, fetal surgery carries risks. These can include preterm labor, infection, and potential harm to the mother. The decision to proceed with fetal surgery is made after careful consideration of these risks and the potential benefits to the fetus.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Fetal surgery
- Wikipedia's article - Fetal surgery
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