The Future of Fetal Surgery
Eric Bergh1, Cara Buskmiller2, Anthony Johnson1
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Fetal Center at Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, University of Texas Health Science Center, McGovern Medical School, 6410 Fannin Street, Suite 700, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of North America
|November 10, 2021
Summary
Fetal medicine advances have improved unborn patient care through better diagnostics and in utero surgery. Future innovations include robotic surgery, stem cell therapies, and novel ex utero support systems.
Area of Science:
- Fetal medicine and surgery
- Prenatal diagnostics
- Regenerative medicine
Background:
- Fetal medicine has seen significant evolution over recent decades.
- Progress is driven by technological and scientific breakthroughs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the advancements in fetal medicine.
- To outline future directions and emerging technologies in the field.
Main Methods:
- Review of imaging technology advancements.
- Analysis of genetic diagnostic techniques.
- Examination of in utero surgical technique development.
- Exploration of fetal physiology understanding.
Main Results:
- Improved identification and treatment of the unborn patient.
- Development and optimization of in utero surgical techniques.
Conclusions:
- The future of fetal medicine will be shaped by minimally invasive techniques.
- Pioneering technologies like robotic surgery, stem cell, and gene therapies will advance care.
- Innovative ex utero fetal support systems are under development.
