Fetendo

Fetendo is a surgical procedure that involves the use of endoscopy to perform operations on a fetus while it is still in the uterus. This technique is a part of fetal surgery, a branch of maternal-fetal medicine that covers any of the therapeutic procedures performed on the fetus.

History

The term "Fetendo" was first coined by Dr. Michael R. Harrison and his team at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) in the late 1990s. The term is a portmanteau of "fetal endoscopy". The first successful Fetendo procedure was performed at UCSF in 1995.

Procedure

The Fetendo procedure is performed by inserting an endoscope into the uterus through a small incision in the mother's abdomen. The endoscope is equipped with a camera and surgical instruments, allowing the surgeon to view and operate on the fetus. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia.

Applications

Fetendo has been used to treat a variety of fetal conditions, including congenital diaphragmatic hernia, spina bifida, and twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome. It has also been used to perform fetoscopic laser photocoagulation, a procedure used to treat twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome.

Risks and Complications

Like all surgical procedures, Fetendo carries some risks. These include the risk of preterm labor, infection, and damage to the uterus or fetus. The mother may also experience complications related to the use of general anesthesia.

Future Developments

Research is ongoing to improve the Fetendo procedure and expand its applications. This includes the development of new surgical instruments and techniques, as well as research into the use of robotic surgery in Fetendo procedures.

See Also

• Fetal surgery
• Endoscopy
• Maternal-fetal medicine

References

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