FETOSCOPY

Fetoscopy is an endoscopic procedure during pregnancy to allow surgical access to the fetus, the
amniotic cavity, the umbilical cord, and the fetal side of the placenta. A small (3–4 mm) incision is made
in the abdomen, and an endoscope is inserted through the abdominal wall and uterus into the amniotic
cavity. Fetoscopy allows for medical interventions such as a biopsy (tissue sample) or a laser occlusion of
abnormal blood vessels (such as chorioangioma) or the treatment of spina bifida.

Fetoscopy is usually performed in the second or third trimester of pregnancy. The procedure can place
the fetus at increased risk of adverse outcomes, including fetal loss or preterm delivery, so the risks and
benefits must be carefully weighed in order to protect the health of the mother and fetus(es). The
procedure is typically performed in an operating room by an obstetrician-gynecologist.

NON SURGICAL FETOSCOPY

Fetoscopy is a surgical procedure which may involve the use of a fibreoptic device called a fetoscope.
Some confusion may arise from the use of specialized forms of stethoscopes, including Pinard horns and
Doppler wands, to audibly monitor fetal heart rate (FHR). These audio diagnostic tools are also called
"fetoscopes" but are not related to fetoscopy.

CONDITIONS TREATED WITH FETOSCOPY

Our doctors use fetoscopic procedures to assess and treat many types of fetal conditions. Some of the
most common conditions that require fetoscopy include:

Amniotic band syndrome: Via a fetoscope, your doctor assesses strands of tissue that have wrapped
around your unborn baby. During surgery, your doctor uses a fetoscope to guide a laser device that cuts
and releases the bands.

Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome: A fetoscope enables your doctor to view abnormal blood vessels
between identical twins. These blood vessels cause one baby to receive too much blood flow while the
other baby receives too little. Your doctor uses a fetoscope during surgery to guide a laser device that
cuts and seals problematic blood vessels.

AFTER FETOSCOPIC SURGERY

A fetoscopic procedure increases the risk of complications, including early labor and delivery. You will
stay at the Women & Infants Center for observation and monitoring until your doctor gives the okay to
go home.
REFERENCES-

Kohl, Thomas. Percutaneous minimally invasive fetoscopic surgery for spina bifida aperta. Part I: surgical
technique and perioperative outcome.Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2014; 44: 515–524

Perez-Medina, Tirso; Font, Enrique Cayuela (2011-04-30). Diagnostic and Operative Hysteroscopy. JP
Medical Ltd. ISBN 9789380704692.

Valenti, C (15 October 1972). "Endoamnioscopy and fetal biopsy: a new technique". American Journal of
Obstetrics and Gynecology. 114 (4): 561–4