Fetal surgical intervention

Over the past 25 years obstetricians have developed multiple techniques to diagnose fetal abnormalities whether they be structural or functional. Such diagnoses have allowed couples the option of pregnancy termination when legally permissible. In selective situations it has become possible to correct some abnormalities. In general, structural abnormalities have suggested surgical approaches, whereas metabolic abnormalities have generally been treated pharmacologically or genetically. Over the past few years there have been a number of advances in surgical therapies, some of which will be detailed here.