Open fetal surgery for myelomeningocele.

In a recently completed randomized, prospective clinical trial, fetal repair for myelomeningocele was shown to result in reduced rates of hydrocephalus requiring placement of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt, improvement in Chiari malformation Type II, and improvement in neurological function compared with standard postnatal repair. Successful fetal surgery requires the active participation and interaction of several clinical teams. Each group has a specific role, and overlap is often required at different points of the treatment plan. Extensive multispecialty discussions with the patient and family are necessary before informed consent can be obtained. Fetal surgery carries significant risks to the mother and fetus and these must be carefully considered prior to a final treatment decision. This review will summarize the evaluation and treatment of patients undergoing fetal repair for myelomeningocele at one institution.

Spectrum of intrapartum management strategies for giant fetal cervical teratoma.

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: The management of the fetus with a large neck mass that obstructs the airway remains a clinical challenge. The authors review their experience with giant fetal cervical teratoma and discuss options for management. METHODS: A retrospective review of all patients referred since 1994 for prenatal management of a fetal neck mass was performed. Variables examined included gestational age at diagnosis and delivery, size and location of the neck mass, presence of fetal hydrops, associated anomalies, management methods, operating time, and outcome. RESULTS: Seven patients were identified with a prenatal diagnosis of giant cervical teratoma. Four patients had fetal hydrops; of these, 2 died in utero of hydrops, and a third fetus underwent elective termination. The remaining hydropic and previable fetus underwent fetal surgery for resection of the mass. The 3 nonhydropic patients underwent ex utero intrapartum treatment (EXIT) procedures for airway control. Endotracheal intubation was possible in one patient, and one received a tracheostomy. In the third fetus, neither intubation nor tracheostomy were possible, and resection of the neck mass was performed on placental support. There were no deaths in the surgical group. CONCLUSIONS: The management of fetal giant cervical teratoma includes a spectrum of options. For the rare previable fetus with hydrops, fetal resection may be indicated. In patients with airway obstruction, EXIT procedure provides the luxury of time to obtain airway control either by intubation, tracheostomy, or, if necessary, tumor resection on placental support.

Anesthesia for fetal surgery.

Fetal surgery is the antenatal treatment of fetal malformations that cannot be adequately corrected after birth. Anesthesia for fetal surgery involves two patients, and issues of maternal safety, avoidance of fetal asphyxia, adequate fetal anesthesia and monitoring, and uterine relaxation are important. Communication with the surgeon to determine the surgical approach and need for uterine relaxation allows the anesthesiologist the ability to vary the anesthetic technique. Lessons learned from fetal surgery may help other neonates with life-threatening anomalies and may help understand the complex issues related to preterm labor.