What conditions can be treated with fetal surgery?

Corey W. Iqbal, MD on behalf of Overland Park Regional Medical Center

Pediatric Surgery

A wide range of conditions can be treated with fetal surgery. Fetal surgery is aimed at treating a problem the unborn child may have or a complication arising in the pregnancy such as twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome. These procedures can be minimally invasive using needles or a special scope or they can be highly invasive with a large surgery for both mom and the baby. Currently, complications of twin pregnancies where the twins share a single placenta are the most commonly treated disorders. Other conditions that can be treated with fetal surgery include:

spina bifida
bladder obstruction
fluid on the lung
tumors causing heart failure

Regardless of the condition, it can oftentimes be helpful for families to meet with a fetal surgery team and learn more about a specific condition.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.