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Multidisciplinary team counseling for fetal anomalies
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, William Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, MI 48072.
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
|August 1, 1989
Summary
Coordinated prenatal management of fetal anomalies involves a multidisciplinary team and family counseling. This approach clarifies the diagnosis and prognosis, reducing family anxiety during a crisis.
Area of Science:
- Perinatal Medicine
- Fetal Surgery
- Pediatric Subspecialties
Background:
- Prenatal diagnosis of fetal anomalies necessitates comprehensive management strategies.
- Effective care requires collaboration among various medical specialists and the family.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a multidisciplinary team approach for managing pregnancies with diagnosed fetal anomalies.
- To evaluate the benefits of early, integrated counseling for affected families.
Main Methods:
- Convening a multidisciplinary team including obstetricians, neonatologists, subspecialists, geneticists, and social workers.
- Facilitating a joint meeting with the family and all relevant specialists shortly after anomaly identification.
- Discussing diagnosis, prognosis, management plans, and available alternatives during the team-family conference.
Main Results:
- The described approach led to a clear definition of the medical problem for families.
- Integrated team counseling was found to reduce confusion and anxiety.
- A supportive environment was established for families experiencing a crisis.
Conclusions:
- A cooperative, multidisciplinary team approach is effective for prenatal management of fetal anomalies.
- Early and comprehensive family counseling improves the management experience and support.
- This model of care has shown favorable outcomes in 28 families studied.