Fetal therapy is a branch of medicine involving the diagnosis and treatment of fetal abnormalities. Fetal abnormalities occur in the uterus during pregnancy, and can be caused by genetics, pregnancy complications, medication side effects or exposure to chemicals – most of which are outside of a mother’s control. Abnormalities can range from mild to severe and can affect almost any part of the body.
Fetal therapy is a complex and relatively new field of medicine in Ireland. Procedures are carried out by a limited number of highly skilled obstetricians specialising in Maternal Fetal Medicine in large maternity units like the Rotunda Hospital, National Maternity Hospital or Coombe Hospital. Fetal therapy includes both non-invasive medical interventions (drugs) or a surgical in-utero intervention (fetoscopy). Fetal therapies allow physicians to change the course of a disease within the uterus, often resulting in better outcomes for both mother and baby.
Fetoscopy is one of the most impactful examples of fetal therapy. It is a minimally invasive surgical procedure involving the insertion of a small instrument, called a fetoscope, into a pregnant woman’s uterus under ultrasound guidance. This procedure allows a fetal surgeon access to the fetus, umbilical cord, placenta and amniotic cavity to examine an unborn baby, perform procedures to treat a number of fetal conditions (often fatal if left untreated) and collect tissue biopsies.
To further explore advances in the complex area of fetal therapy, we have assembled a world-renowned panel of researchers to host a 2-day expert-led workshop for Irish healthcare professionals. This workshop will provide attendees with a unique opportunity to (i) learn about pioneering international research in the field of high-risk surgical obstetrics, (ii) network with world-leading obstetricians to discuss health policies, (iii) develop research strategies and explore funding avenues for future grant applications in the area of women’s health.
