Invasive intrauterine treatment

Abstract

Advances in imaging and medical technology have made it possible to detect fetal conditions early and, in certain cases, to treat them in utero. Ethically, fetal treatment may only be offered if intrauterine treatment provides a distinct advantage over postnatal treatment or if intrauterine treatment can prevent permanent damage or even intrauterine fetal death. Invasive fetal treatment is offered, e.g., for fetal anemia, twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, fetal spina bifida or congenital diaphragmatic hernia. One of the main complications of invasive fetal treatment is the premature rupture of fetal membranes.