fetoscopy [Neurosurgery Wiki]

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Fetoscopy is a minimally invasive prenatal surgical procedure that involves the insertion of a [[fetoscope]]—a thin, flexible endoscopic instrument—into the amniotic cavity through the maternal abdomen and uterine wall, under ultrasound guidance. It allows direct visualization of the fetus and placenta and enables diagnostic and therapeutic interventions during the second trimester of pregnancy.

🧪 Key Characteristics:

Access route: [[Percutaneous]] (via small trocars through maternal abdominal wall) or laparoscopic-assisted (in hybrid approaches).

Common uses:

Laser ablation in twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS)

Fetoscopic myelomeningocele repair (OSB)

Cord occlusion, fetal tracheal occlusion (FETO), etc.

Advantages: Less invasive than [[open fetal surgery]], lower risk of uterine rupture in future pregnancies.