Percutaneous fetal access and uterine closure for fetoscopic surgery. Lessons learned from 16 consecutive procedures in pregnant sheep.

BACKGROUND

Maternal morbidity and preterm labor from fetal surgery might be minimized by a percutaneous technique for fetal access and uterine closure.

METHODS

In each of 16 ewes, we inserted three trocars percutaneously into the amniotic cavity using ultrasound and fetoscopic guidance. In six ewes, percutaneous uterine closure after the procedure was attempted. We assessed feasibility and acute complications of our technique during surgery and at autopsy.

RESULTS

We achieved percutaneous fetal access in 14 ewes and closed the uterus percutaneously in all six ewes attempted. Fetal injury was related to amnioinfusion or fixation of chorioamniotic membranes. Other complications were trocar dislodgment and damage to uterine wall and chorioamniotic membranes. The latter complication was prevented using balloon-tipped trocars.

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous intraamniotic access and uterine closure for fetoscopic surgery can be achieved reliably with little maternal and fetal morbidity in sheep. Minor modifications are desired to apply this approach in humans.