Related Experiment Videos
Needle embryofetoscopy and early prenatal diagnosis
E A Reece1, C J Homko, A Wiznitzer
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pa., USA.
Fetal Diagnosis and Therapy
|March 1, 1995
Summary
Needle embryofetoscopy (NEF) allowed direct visualization of a fetus at 15 weeks gestation. This procedure successfully ruled out a suspected neural tube defect, demonstrating NEF
Area of Science:
- Medical imaging and diagnostics
- Prenatal medicine
- Minimally invasive fetal procedures
Background:
- Elevated maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP) can indicate fetal abnormalities.
- Spina bifida is a serious neural tube defect affecting fetal development.
- Amniocentesis is a common diagnostic procedure, but may be declined by patients.
Observation:
- A pregnant woman with elevated MSAFP (2.5 MOM) and suspected spina bifida on ultrasound opted for NEF.
- Needle embryofetoscopy (NEF) was performed transabdominally at 15 weeks gestation.
- The procedure utilized a 16-gauge double-barrel instrument sheath for direct visualization.
Findings:
- The NEF procedure was successfully completed without complications.
- Direct visualization via NEF revealed no evidence of a neural tube defect.
- The suspected spina bifida was not confirmed upon fetal examination.
Implications:
- NEF offers a minimally invasive approach for early prenatal diagnosis.
- The technique has potential applications in fetal treatment.
- Accurate prenatal diagnosis can guide management and reduce unnecessary interventions.