Fetoscopy

Fetoscopy is a procedure in which a fetoscope, an endoscope, is inserted into the abdomen of a pregnant woman to view the fetus in the uterus. This procedure is typically performed by a perinatologist or a maternal-fetal medicine specialist.

Procedure

The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia and may be done in an outpatient setting. The fetoscope is inserted through a small incision in the abdomen and into the uterus. The fetoscope allows the doctor to view the fetus, the umbilical cord, and the placenta. The procedure can be used to take biopsies of the placenta or the skin of the fetus, or to perform certain types of fetal surgery.

Uses

Fetoscopy is used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. It can be used to diagnose certain genetic disorders and birth defects, and to perform procedures such as blood transfusions to the fetus, laser therapy for twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, and fetal surgery for conditions such as spina bifida.

Risks

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with fetoscopy. These may include preterm labor, infection, bleeding, and damage to the uterus or fetus. The risks should be discussed with the doctor before the procedure.

See also

• Amniocentesis
• Chorionic villus sampling
• Prenatal diagnosis
• Fetal surgery

References

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