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Vergote S, Joyeux L, Basurto D, Bleeser T, Valenzuela I, Valentyn B, Emam D, Watananirun K, De Bie FR, Aertsen M, van der Merwe J, Deprest J. Duration of fetoscopic spina bifida repair does not affect the central nervous system in fetal lambs. Am J Obstet Gynecol MFM 2023; 5:101156. [PMID: 37714330 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajogmf.2023.101156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal spina bifida aperta repair improves neurologic outcomes yet comes with a significant risk of prematurity and uterine scar-related complications. To reduce such complications, different fetoscopic techniques, for example, with varying numbers of ports, are being explored. This has an effect on the duration of the procedure, potentially affecting central nervous system development. Both the condition and anesthesia can affect the central nervous system, particularly the hippocampus, a region crucial for prospective and episodic memory. Previous animal studies have shown the potential influence of anesthesia, premature delivery, and maternal surgery during pregnancy on this area. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to compare the effects of 2- vs 3-port fetoscopic spina bifida aperta repair in the fetal lamb model using neuron count of the hippocampus as the primary outcome. STUDY DESIGN Based on the hippocampal neuron count from previous lamb experiments, we calculated that we required 5 animals per group to achieve a statistical power of ≥ 80%. A spina bifida aperta defect was developed in fetal lambs at 75 days of gestation (term: 145 days). At 100 days, fetuses underwent either a 2-port or 3-port fetoscopic repair. At 143 days, all surviving fetuses were delivered by cesarean delivery, anesthetized, and transcardially perfused with a mixture of formaldehyde and gadolinium. Next, they underwent neonatal brain and spine magnetic resonance imaging after which these organs were harvested for histology. Hippocampus, frontal cortex, caudate nucleus, and cerebellum samples were immunostained to identify neurons, astrocytes, microglia, and markers associated with cell proliferation, myelination, and synapses. The degree of hindbrain herniation and the ventricular diameter were measured on magnetic resonance images and volumes of relevant brain and medulla areas were segmented. RESULTS Both treatment groups included 5 fetuses and 9 unoperated littermates served as normal controls. The durations for both skin-to-skin (341±31 vs 287±40 minutes; P=.04) and fetal surgery (183±30 vs 128±22; P=.01) were longer for the 2-port approach than for the 3-port approach. There was no significant difference in neuron density in the hippocampus, frontal cortex, and cerebellum. In the caudate nucleus, the neuron count was higher in the 2-port group (965±156 vs 767±92 neurons/mm2; P=.04). There were neither differences in proliferation, astrogliosis, synaptophysin, or myelin. The tip of the cerebellar vermis was closer to the foramen magnum in animals undergoing the 2-port approach than in animals undergoing the 3-port approach (-0.72±0.67 vs -2.47±0.91 mm; P=.009). There was no significant difference in the ratio of the hippocampus, caudate nucleus, or cerebellar volume to body weight. For the spine, no difference was noted in spine volume-to-body weight ratio for the lower (L1-L2), middle (L3-L4), and higher (L5-L6) levels. Compared with controls, in repaired animals, the cerebellar vermis tip laid closer to the foramen magnum, parietal ventricles were enlarged, and medulla volumes were reduced. CONCLUSION In the experimental spina bifida fetal lamb model, a 2-port repair took 40% longer than a 3-port repair. However, there was no indication of any relevant morphologic differences in the fetal brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simen Vergote
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (Drs Vergote, Joyeux, Basurto, Bleeser, and Valenzuela, Ms Valentyn, and Drs Emam, Watananirun, De Bie, van der Merwe, and Deprest); Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Biomedical Sciences, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (Drs Vergote, Joyeux, Basurto, Bleeser, and Valenzuela, Ms Valentyn, and Drs Emam, Watananirun, De Bie, van der Merwe, and Deprest)
| | - Luc Joyeux
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (Drs Vergote, Joyeux, Basurto, Bleeser, and Valenzuela, Ms Valentyn, and Drs Emam, Watananirun, De Bie, van der Merwe, and Deprest); Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Biomedical Sciences, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (Drs Vergote, Joyeux, Basurto, Bleeser, and Valenzuela, Ms Valentyn, and Drs Emam, Watananirun, De Bie, van der Merwe, and Deprest); Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX (Dr Joyeux)
| | - David Basurto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (Drs Vergote, Joyeux, Basurto, Bleeser, and Valenzuela, Ms Valentyn, and Drs Emam, Watananirun, De Bie, van der Merwe, and Deprest); Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Biomedical Sciences, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (Drs Vergote, Joyeux, Basurto, Bleeser, and Valenzuela, Ms Valentyn, and Drs Emam, Watananirun, De Bie, van der Merwe, and Deprest); Department of Fetal Medicine and Fetal Surgery, National Institute of Perinatology, Mexico City, Mexico (Dr Basurto)
| | - Tom Bleeser
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (Drs Vergote, Joyeux, Basurto, Bleeser, and Valenzuela, Ms Valentyn, and Drs Emam, Watananirun, De Bie, van der Merwe, and Deprest); Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Biomedical Sciences, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (Drs Vergote, Joyeux, Basurto, Bleeser, and Valenzuela, Ms Valentyn, and Drs Emam, Watananirun, De Bie, van der Merwe, and Deprest); Department of Anaesthesiology, Universitair Ziekenhuis Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (Dr Bleeser); Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (Dr Bleeser)
| | - Ignacio Valenzuela
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (Drs Vergote, Joyeux, Basurto, Bleeser, and Valenzuela, Ms Valentyn, and Drs Emam, Watananirun, De Bie, van der Merwe, and Deprest); Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Biomedical Sciences, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (Drs Vergote, Joyeux, Basurto, Bleeser, and Valenzuela, Ms Valentyn, and Drs Emam, Watananirun, De Bie, van der Merwe, and Deprest)
| | - Britt Valentyn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (Drs Vergote, Joyeux, Basurto, Bleeser, and Valenzuela, Ms Valentyn, and Drs Emam, Watananirun, De Bie, van der Merwe, and Deprest); Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Biomedical Sciences, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (Drs Vergote, Joyeux, Basurto, Bleeser, and Valenzuela, Ms Valentyn, and Drs Emam, Watananirun, De Bie, van der Merwe, and Deprest)
| | - Doaa Emam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (Drs Vergote, Joyeux, Basurto, Bleeser, and Valenzuela, Ms Valentyn, and Drs Emam, Watananirun, De Bie, van der Merwe, and Deprest); Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Biomedical Sciences, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (Drs Vergote, Joyeux, Basurto, Bleeser, and Valenzuela, Ms Valentyn, and Drs Emam, Watananirun, De Bie, van der Merwe, and Deprest); Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Tanta University Hospitals, Tanta, Egypt (Dr Emam)
| | - Kanokwaroon Watananirun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (Drs Vergote, Joyeux, Basurto, Bleeser, and Valenzuela, Ms Valentyn, and Drs Emam, Watananirun, De Bie, van der Merwe, and Deprest); Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Biomedical Sciences, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (Drs Vergote, Joyeux, Basurto, Bleeser, and Valenzuela, Ms Valentyn, and Drs Emam, Watananirun, De Bie, van der Merwe, and Deprest); Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand (Dr Watananirun)
| | - Felix R De Bie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (Drs Vergote, Joyeux, Basurto, Bleeser, and Valenzuela, Ms Valentyn, and Drs Emam, Watananirun, De Bie, van der Merwe, and Deprest); Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Biomedical Sciences, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (Drs Vergote, Joyeux, Basurto, Bleeser, and Valenzuela, Ms Valentyn, and Drs Emam, Watananirun, De Bie, van der Merwe, and Deprest)
| | - Michael Aertsen
- Department of Imaging and Pathology, Clinical Department of Radiology, University Hospitals Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (Dr Aertsen)
| | - Johannes van der Merwe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (Drs Vergote, Joyeux, Basurto, Bleeser, and Valenzuela, Ms Valentyn, and Drs Emam, Watananirun, De Bie, van der Merwe, and Deprest); Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Biomedical Sciences, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (Drs Vergote, Joyeux, Basurto, Bleeser, and Valenzuela, Ms Valentyn, and Drs Emam, Watananirun, De Bie, van der Merwe, and Deprest)
| | - Jan Deprest
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (Drs Vergote, Joyeux, Basurto, Bleeser, and Valenzuela, Ms Valentyn, and Drs Emam, Watananirun, De Bie, van der Merwe, and Deprest); Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Biomedical Sciences, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium (Drs Vergote, Joyeux, Basurto, Bleeser, and Valenzuela, Ms Valentyn, and Drs Emam, Watananirun, De Bie, van der Merwe, and Deprest); Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom (Dr Deprest).
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Joyeux L, Basurto D, Bleeser T, Van der Veeken L, Vergote S, Kunpalin Y, Trigo L, Corno E, De Bie FR, De Coppi P, Ourselin S, Van Calenbergh F, Hooper SB, Rex S, Deprest J. Fetoscopic insufflation of heated-humidified carbon dioxide during simulated spina bifida repair is safe under controlled anesthesia in the fetal lamb. Prenat Diagn 2022; 42:180-191. [PMID: 35032031 DOI: 10.1002/pd.6093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the safety of Partial-Amniotic-Insufflation-of-heated-humidified-CO2 (hPACI) during fetoscopic spina bifida repair (fSB-repair). METHOD A simulated fSB-repair through an exteriorized uterus under hPACI was performed in 100-day fetal lambs (term = 145 days) under a laboratory anesthesia protocol (n = 5; group 1) which is known to induce maternal-fetal acidosis and hypercapnia. Since these may not occur clinically, we applied a clinical anesthesia protocol (n = 5; group 2), keeping maternal parameters within physiological conditions, that is, controlled maternal arterial carbon dioxide (CO2) pressure (pCO2 = 30 mmHg), blood pressure (≥67 mmHg), and temperature (37.1-39.8°C). Our superiority study used fetal pH as the primary outcome. RESULTS Compared to group 1, controlled anesthesia normalized fetal pH (7.23 ± 0.02 vs. 7.36 ± 0.02, p < 0.001), pCO2 (70.0 ± 9.1 vs. 43.0 ± 1.0 mmHg, p = 0.011) and bicarbonate (27.8 ± 1.1 vs. 24.0 ± 0.9 mmol/L, p = 0.071) at baseline. It kept them within clinically acceptable limits (pH ≥ 7.23, pCO2 ≤ 70 mmHg, bicarbonate ≤ 30 mm/L) for ≥120 min of hPACI as opposed to ≤30 min in group one. Fetal pO2 and lactate were comparable between groups and generally within normal range. Fetal brain histology demonstrated fewer apoptotic cells and higher neuronal density in the prefrontal cortex in group two. There was no difference in fetal membrane inflammation, which was mild. CONCLUSION Fetoscopic insufflation of heated-humidified CO2 during simulated fSB-repair through an exteriorized uterus can be done safely under controlled anesthesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luc Joyeux
- My FetUZ Fetal Research Center, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Center for Surgical Technologies, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - David Basurto
- My FetUZ Fetal Research Center, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Center for Surgical Technologies, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Tom Bleeser
- My FetUZ Fetal Research Center, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Center for Surgical Technologies, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lennart Van der Veeken
- My FetUZ Fetal Research Center, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Center for Surgical Technologies, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Simen Vergote
- My FetUZ Fetal Research Center, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Center for Surgical Technologies, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Yada Kunpalin
- My FetUZ Fetal Research Center, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Institute of Women's Health, University College London Hospitals, London, UK
| | - Lucas Trigo
- My FetUZ Fetal Research Center, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,BCNatal, Fetal Medicine Research Center, Hospital Clinic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Institut d'Investigacions Biomediques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Enrico Corno
- My FetUZ Fetal Research Center, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Felix R De Bie
- My FetUZ Fetal Research Center, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Center for Surgical Technologies, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Center for Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, and the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Paolo De Coppi
- My FetUZ Fetal Research Center, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Center for Surgical Technologies, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Specialist Neonatal and Pediatric Surgery Unit, Great Ormond Street Hospital, University College London Hospitals, NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Sebastien Ourselin
- School of Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Stuart B Hooper
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Steffen Rex
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jan Deprest
- My FetUZ Fetal Research Center, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Center for Surgical Technologies, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Institute of Women's Health, University College London Hospitals, London, UK
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3
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Miller JL, Groves ML, Ahn ES, Berman DJ, Murphy JD, Rosner MK, Wolfson D, Jelin EB, Korth SA, Keiser AM, Laurie M, Millard SE, Tekes A, Baschat AA. Implementation Process and Evolution of a Laparotomy-Assisted 2-Port Fetoscopic Spina Bifida Closure Program. Fetal Diagn Ther 2021; 48:603-610. [PMID: 34518445 DOI: 10.1159/000518507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Prenatal closure of open spina bifida via open fetal surgery improves neurologic outcomes for infants in selected pregnancies. Fetoscopic techniques that are minimally invasive to the uterus aim to provide equivalent fetal benefits while minimizing maternal morbidities, but the optimal technique is undetermined. We describe the development, evolution, and feasibility of the laparotomy-assisted 2-port fetoscopic technique for prenatal closure of fetal spina bifida in a newly established program. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study of women consented for laparotomy-assisted fetoscopic closure of isolated fetal spina bifida. Inclusion and exclusion criteria followed the Management of Myelomeningocele Study (MOMS). Team preparation involved observation at the originating center, protocol development, ancillary staff training, and surgical rehearsal using patient-matched models through simulation prior to program implementation. The primary outcome was the ability to complete the repair fetoscopically. Secondary maternal and fetal outcomes to assess performance of the technique were collected prospectively. RESULTS Of 57 women screened, 19 (33%) consented for laparotomy-assisted 2-port fetoscopy between February 2017 and December 2019. Fetoscopic closure was completed in 84% (16/19) cases. Over time, the technique was modified from a single- to a multilayer closure. In utero hindbrain herniation improved in 86% (12/14) of undelivered patients at 6 weeks postoperatively. Spontaneous rupture of membranes occurred in 31% (5/16) of fetoscopic cases. For completed cases, median gestational age at birth was 37 (range 27-39.6) weeks and 50% (8/16) of women delivered at term. Vaginal birth was achieved in 56% (9/16) of patients. One newborn had a cerebrospinal fluid leak that required postnatal surgical repair. CONCLUSION Implementation of a laparotomy-assisted 2-port fetoscopic spina bifida closure program through rigorous preparation and multispecialty team training may accelerate the learning curve and demonstrates favorable obstetric and perinatal outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jena L Miller
- The Johns Hopkins Center for Fetal Therapy, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Mari L Groves
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Edward S Ahn
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - David J Berman
- Division of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Fetal Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jamie D Murphy
- Division of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Fetal Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Mara K Rosner
- The Johns Hopkins Center for Fetal Therapy, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Denise Wolfson
- The Johns Hopkins Center for Fetal Therapy, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Eric B Jelin
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Sarah A Korth
- Keelty Center for Spina Bifida and Related Conditions, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Amaris M Keiser
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Melissa Laurie
- The Johns Hopkins Center for Fetal Therapy, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Sarah E Millard
- The Johns Hopkins Center for Fetal Therapy, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Aylin Tekes
- Division of Pediatric Radiology and Pediatric Neuroradiology, Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ahmet A Baschat
- The Johns Hopkins Center for Fetal Therapy, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Sangara RN, Chon AH, Van Speybroeck AL, Chu JK, Llanes AS, Kontopoulos EV, Quintero RA, Chmait RH. Fetal blood gases after in utero carbon dioxide insufflation for percutaneous fetoscopic spina bifida repair. Am J Obstet Gynecol MFM 2021; 3:100409. [PMID: 34058420 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajogmf.2021.100409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prenatal repair of open spina bifida via the percutaneous fetoscopic approach does not require maternal laparotomy, hysterotomy, or exteriorization of the uterus. This technique requires intrauterine partial CO2 insufflation. Limited data exist on the physiological effects of CO2 insufflation on human fetuses, with no data on open spina bifida repair performed using the entirely percutaneous fetoscopic surgical technique. OBJECTIVE Our aim was to examine the effects of intrauterine partial CO2 insufflation on fetal blood gases after percutaneous fetoscopic open spina bifida repair. STUDY DESIGN This was a prospective study of patients who underwent percutaneous fetoscopic open spina bifida repair from February 2019 to July 2020. Fetal cordocentesis of the umbilical vein was performed in cases with favorable access to the umbilical cord. The umbilical vein cord blood samples were obtained under ultrasound guidance immediately at the conclusion of the open spina bifida repair. Simultaneous maternal arterial blood gas samples were also obtained. The results are reported as median (range). RESULTS Of the 20 patients who underwent percutaneous fetoscopic open spina bifida repair during the study period, 7 patients (35%) underwent fetal blood sampling. The gestational age at the time of surgery was 27.4 (24.0-27.9) weeks and the operative time was 183 (156-251) minutes. The CO2 exposure time was 122 (57-146) minutes with maximum pressure of 13.5 (12.0-15.0) mm Hg. Fetal umbilical vein results were as follows: pH 7.35 (7.30-7.39), partial pressure of O2 56.2 (47.1-99.9) mm Hg, partial pressure of CO2 43.8 (36.2-53.0) mm Hg, HCO3 23.9 (20.1-25.6) mmol/L, and base excess -2.2 (-4.5 to -0.4) mmol/L. Simultaneous maternal arterial blood gas results were as follows: pH 7.37 (7.28-7.42), partial pressure of O2 187.5 (124.4-405.2) mm Hg, partial pressure of CO2 36.6 (30.7-46.0) mm Hg, HCO3 21.3 (18.0-22.8) mmol/L and base excess -3.2 (-5.9 to -1.8) mmol/L. CONCLUSION Despite prolonged CO2insufflation of the uterus, fetal umbilical vein pH and base excess values did not approach those associated with potentially pathologic fetal acidemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rauvynne N Sangara
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA (Drs Sangara and Chon, Ms Llanes, and Dr Chmait)
| | - Andrew H Chon
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA (Drs Sangara and Chon, Ms Llanes, and Dr Chmait)
| | - Alexander L Van Speybroeck
- Division of General Pediatrics, University of Southern California, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA (Dr Speybroeck)
| | - Jason K Chu
- Division of Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA (Dr Chu)
| | - Arlyn S Llanes
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA (Drs Sangara and Chon, Ms Llanes, and Dr Chmait)
| | | | - Rubén A Quintero
- The USFETUS Research Organization, Miami, FL (Drs Kontopoulos and Quintero)
| | - Ramen H Chmait
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA (Drs Sangara and Chon, Ms Llanes, and Dr Chmait).
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Verweij EJ, de Vries MC, Oldekamp EJ, Eggink AJ, Oepkes D, Slaghekke F, Spoor JKH, Deprest JA, Miller JL, Baschat AA, DeKoninck PLJ. Fetoscopic myelomeningocoele closure: Is the scientific evidence enough to challenge the gold standard for prenatal surgery? Prenat Diagn 2021; 41:949-956. [PMID: 33778976 PMCID: PMC8360048 DOI: 10.1002/pd.5940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Since the completion of the Management of Myelomeningocoele Study, maternal-fetal surgery for spina bifida has become a valid option for expecting parents. More recently, multiple groups are exploring a minimally invasive approach and recent outcomes have addressed many of the initial concerns with this approach. Based on a previously published framework, we attempt to delineate the developmental stage of the surgical techniques. Furthermore, we discuss the barriers of performing randomized controlled trials comparing two surgical interventions and suggest that data collection through registries is an alternative method to gather high-grade evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Joanne Verweij
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Martine C de Vries
- Department of Medical Ethics & Health Law, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Esther J Oldekamp
- Department of Medical Ethics & Health Law, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Alex J Eggink
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Dick Oepkes
- Department of Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Femke Slaghekke
- Department of Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jochem K H Spoor
- Department of Neurosurgery, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jan A Deprest
- Academic Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jena L Miller
- Johns Hopkins Center for Fetal Therapy, Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ahmet A Baschat
- Johns Hopkins Center for Fetal Therapy, Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Philip L J DeKoninck
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Amberg BJ, DeKoninck PLJ, Kashyap AJ, Skinner SM, Rodgers KA, McGillick EV, Deprest JA, Hooper SB, Crossley KJ, Hodges RJ. Placental gas exchange during amniotic carbon dioxide insufflation in sheep. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2021; 57:305-313. [PMID: 31765050 DOI: 10.1002/uog.21933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Revised: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Insufflation of the amniotic cavity with carbon dioxide (CO2 ) is used clinically to improve visibility during complex fetoscopic surgery. Insufflation with heated, humidified CO2 has recently been shown to reduce fetal hypercapnia and acidosis in sheep, compared with use of cold and dry CO2 , but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate whether differences in placental CO2 and oxygen (O2 ) exchange during insufflation with heated and humidified vs cold and dry CO2 could explain these findings. METHODS Thirteen fetal lambs at 105 days of gestation (term, 146 days) were exteriorized partially, via a midline laparotomy and hysterotomy, and instrumented with an umbilical artery catheter, an umbilical vein catheter and a common umbilical vein flow probe. Arterial and venous catheters and flow probes were also inserted into the maternal uterine circulation. Six ewes were insufflated with cold, dry CO2 (22°C; 0-5% humidity) and seven with heated, humidified CO2 (40°C; 95-100% humidity) at 15 mmHg for 180 min. Blood-flow recordings and paired arterial and venous blood gases were sampled from uterine and umbilical vessels. Rates of placental CO2 and O2 exchange were calculated. RESULTS After 180 min of insufflation, fetal survival was 33% (2/6) using cold, dry CO2 and 71% (5/7) using heated, humidified CO2 . By 120 min, fetuses insufflated with heated, humidified CO2 had lower arterial CO2 levels and higher arterial pH compared to those insufflated with cold, dry gas. Insufflation decreased significantly placental gas exchange in both groups, as measured by rates of both (i) fetal CO2 clearance and O2 uptake and (ii) maternal O2 delivery and CO2 uptake from the fetal compartment. CONCLUSIONS Lower arterial CO2 and higher pH levels in fetuses insufflated with heated and humidified, compared to cold and dry, CO2 could not be explained by differences in placental gas exchange. Instead, heated and humidified insufflation appeared to reduce fetal CO2 absorption from the uterus, supporting its use in preference to cold, dry CO2 . © 2019 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- B J Amberg
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - P L J DeKoninck
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A J Kashyap
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - S M Skinner
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - K A Rodgers
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - E V McGillick
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - J A Deprest
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Division Woman and Child, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Organ Systems, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - S B Hooper
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - K J Crossley
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - R J Hodges
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Abstract
Fetal intervention has progressed in the past two decades from experimental proof-of-concept to practice-adopted, life saving interventions in human fetuses with congenital anomalies. This progress is informed by advances in innovative research, prenatal diagnosis, and fetal surgical techniques. Invasive open hysterotomy, associated with notable maternal-fetal risks, is steadily replaced by less invasive fetoscopic alternatives. A better understanding of the natural history and pathophysiology of congenital diseases has advanced the prenatal regenerative paradigm. By altering the natural course of disease through regrowth or redevelopment of malformed fetal organs, prenatal regenerative medicine has transformed maternal-fetal care. This review discusses the uses of regenerative medicine in the prenatal diagnosis and management of three congenital diseases: congenital diaphragmatic hernia, lower urinary tract obstruction, and spina bifida.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Ruano
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Center for Regenerative Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
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8
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Joyeux L, De Bie F, Danzer E, Russo FM, Javaux A, Peralta CFA, De Salles AAF, Pastuszka A, Olejek A, Van Mieghem T, De Coppi P, Moldenhauer J, Whitehead WE, Belfort MA, Lapa DA, Acacio GL, Devlieger R, Hirose S, Farmer DL, Van Calenbergh F, Adzick NS, Johnson MP, Deprest J. Learning curves of open and endoscopic fetal spina bifida closure: systematic review and meta-analysis. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2020; 55:730-739. [PMID: 31273862 DOI: 10.1002/uog.20389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2019] [Revised: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The Management of Myelomeningocele Study (MOMS) trial demonstrated the safety and efficacy of open fetal surgery for spina bifida aperta (SBA). Recently developed alternative techniques may reduce maternal risks without compromising the fetal neuroprotective effects. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the learning curve (LC) of different fetal SBA closure techniques. METHODS MEDLINE, Web of Science, EMBASE, Scopus and Cochrane databases and the gray literature were searched to identify relevant articles on fetal surgery for SBA, without language restriction, published between January 1980 and October 2018. Identified studies were reviewed systematically and those reporting all consecutive procedures and with postnatal follow-up ≥ 12 months were selected. Studies were included only if they reported outcome variables necessary to measure the LC, as defined by fetal safety and efficacy. Two authors independently retrieved data, assessed the quality of the studies and categorized observations into blocks of 30 patients. For meta-analysis, data were pooled using a random-effects model when heterogeneous. To measure the LC, we used two complementary methods. In the group-splitting method, competency was defined when the procedure provided results comparable to those in the MOMS trial for 12 outcome variables representing the immediate surgical outcome, short-term neonatal neuroprotection and long-term neuroprotection at ≥ 12 months of age. Then, when raw patient data were available, we performed cumulative sum analysis based on a composite binary outcome defining successful surgery. The composite outcome combined four clinically relevant variables for safety (absence of extreme preterm delivery < 30 weeks, absence of fetal death ≤ 7 days after surgery) and efficacy (reversal of hindbrain herniation and absence of any neonatal treatment of dehiscence or cerebrospinal fluid leakage at the closure site). RESULTS Of 6024 search results, 17 (0.3%) studies were included, all of which had low, moderate or unclear risk of bias. Fetal SBA closure was performed using standard hysterotomy (11 studies), mini-hysterotomy (one study) or fetoscopy by either exteriorized-uterus single-layer closure (one study), percutaneous single-layer closure (three studies) or percutaneous two-layer closure (one study). Only outcomes for standard hysterotomy could be meta-analyzed. Overall, outcomes improved significantly with experience. Competency was reached after 35 consecutive cases for standard hysterotomy and was predicted to be achieved after ≥ 57 cases for mini-hysterotomy and ≥ 56 for percutaneous two-layer fetoscopy. For percutaneous and exteriorized-uterus single-layer fetoscopy, competency was not reached in the 81 and 28 cases available for analysis, respectively, and LC prediction analysis could not be performed. CONCLUSIONS The number of cases operated is correlated with the outcome of fetal SBA closure, and the number of operated cases required to reach competency ranges from 35 for standard hysterotomy to ≥ 56-57 for minimally invasive modifications. Our observations provide important information for institutions looking to establish a new fetal center, develop a new fetal surgery technique or train their team, and inform referring clinicians, potential patients and third parties. Copyright © 2019 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Joyeux
- MyFetUZ Fetal Research Center, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Surgical Technologies, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division Women and Child, Fetal Medicine Unit, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - F De Bie
- MyFetUZ Fetal Research Center, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Surgical Technologies, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- The Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - E Danzer
- Center for Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- The Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - F M Russo
- MyFetUZ Fetal Research Center, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Surgical Technologies, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division Women and Child, Fetal Medicine Unit, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - A Javaux
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - C F A Peralta
- Department of Fetal Medicine, The Heart Hospital, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Fetal Medicine, Pro Matre Hospital, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - A A F De Salles
- Neuroscience Institute, The Heart Hospital, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - A Pastuszka
- Department of Descriptive and Topografic Anatomy, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
- Division of Dentistry, School of Medicine, Zabrze, Poland
| | - A Olejek
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecologic Oncology, Medical University of Silesia, Bytom, Poland
| | - T Van Mieghem
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sinai Health System, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - P De Coppi
- MyFetUZ Fetal Research Center, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Surgical Technologies, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division Women and Child, Fetal Medicine Unit, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Specialist Neonatal and Paediatric Surgery Unit, Great Ormond Street Hospital, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - J Moldenhauer
- Center for Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- The Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - W E Whitehead
- Department of Neurosurgery, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Texas Children's Fetal Center, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - M A Belfort
- Texas Children's Fetal Center, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - D A Lapa
- Fetal Therapy Center, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - G L Acacio
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taubate University, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - R Devlieger
- MyFetUZ Fetal Research Center, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division Women and Child, Fetal Medicine Unit, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - S Hirose
- Fetal Care and Treatment Center, UC Davis Children's Hospital, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - D L Farmer
- Fetal Care and Treatment Center, UC Davis Children's Hospital, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - F Van Calenbergh
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - N S Adzick
- Center for Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- The Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - M P Johnson
- Center for Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- The Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - J Deprest
- MyFetUZ Fetal Research Center, Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Surgical Technologies, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division Women and Child, Fetal Medicine Unit, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Institute of Women's Health, University College London Hospitals, London, UK
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9
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Freedman-Weiss MR, Stitelman DH. Minimally Invasive Fetal Therapy for Myelomeningocele. CURRENT STEM CELL REPORTS 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s40778-020-00167-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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10
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Sanz Cortes M, Torres P, Yepez M, Guimaraes C, Zarutskie A, Shetty A, Hsiao A, Pyarali M, Davila I, Espinoza J, Shamshirsaz AA, Nassr A, Whitehead W, Lee W, Belfort MA. Comparison of brain microstructure after prenatal spina bifida repair by either laparotomy-assisted fetoscopic or open approach. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2020; 55:87-95. [PMID: 31219638 DOI: 10.1002/uog.20373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Revised: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare prenatal and postnatal brain microstructure between infants that underwent fetoscopic myelomeningocele (MMC) repair and those that had open-hysterotomy repair. METHODS This was a longitudinal retrospective cohort study of 57 fetuses that met the Management of Myelomeningocele Study (MOMS) trial criteria and underwent prenatal MMC repair, by a fetoscopic (n = 27) or open-hysterotomy (n = 30) approach, at 21.4-25.9 weeks' gestation. Fetoscopic repair was performed under CO2 insufflation, according to our protocol. Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed before surgery in 30 cases (14 fetoscopic and 16 open), at 6 weeks postsurgery in 48 cases (24 fetoscopic and 24 open) and within the first year after birth in 23 infants (five fetoscopic and 18 open). Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values from the basal ganglia, frontal, occipital and parietal lobes, mesencephalon and genu as well as splenium of the corpus callosum were calculated. ADC values at each of the three timepoints (presurgery, 6 weeks postsurgery and postnatally) and the percentage change in the ADC values between the timepoints were compared between the fetoscopic-repair and open-repair groups. ADC values at 6 weeks after surgery in the two prenatally repaired groups were compared with those in a control group of eight healthy fetuses that underwent MRI at a similar gestational age (GA). Comparison of ADC values was performed using the Student's t-test for independent samples (or Mann-Whitney U-test if non-normally distributed) and multivariate general linear model analysis, adjusting for GA or age at MRI and mean ventricular width. RESULTS There were no differences in GA at surgery or GA/postnatal age at MRI between the groups. No significant differences were observed in ADC values in any of the brain areas assessed between the open-repair and fetoscopic-repair groups at 6 weeks after surgery and in the first year after birth. No differences were detected in the ADC values of the studied areas between the control and prenatally repaired groups, except for significantly increased ADC values in the genu of the corpus callosum in the open-hysterotomy and fetoscopic-repair groups. Additionally, there were no differences between the two prenatally repaired groups in the percentage change in ADC values at any of the time intervals analyzed. CONCLUSIONS Fetoscopic MMC repair has no detectable effect on brain microstructure when compared to babies repaired using an open-hysterotomy technique. CO2 insufflation of the uterine cavity during fetoscopy does not seem to have any isolated deleterious effects on fetal brain microstructure. Copyright © 2019 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Sanz Cortes
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - P Torres
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - M Yepez
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - C Guimaraes
- Department of Radiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Radiology, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - A Zarutskie
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - A Shetty
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - A Hsiao
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - M Pyarali
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - I Davila
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - J Espinoza
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - A A Shamshirsaz
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - A Nassr
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - W Whitehead
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - W Lee
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - M A Belfort
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
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11
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Amberg BJ, Hodges RJ, Kashyap AJ, Skinner SM, Rodgers KA, McGillick EV, Deprest JA, Hooper SB, Crossley KJ, DeKoninck PLJ. Physiological effects of partial amniotic carbon dioxide insufflation with cold, dry vs heated, humidified gas in a sheep model. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2019; 53:340-347. [PMID: 30461102 PMCID: PMC6635737 DOI: 10.1002/uog.20180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2018] [Revised: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 11/09/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Partial amniotic carbon dioxide (CO2 ) insufflation (PACI) is used to improve visualization and facilitate complex fetoscopic surgery. However, there are concerns about fetal hypercapnic acidosis and postoperative fetal membrane inflammation. We assessed whether using heated and humidified, rather than cold and dry, CO2 might reduce the impact of PACI on the fetus and fetal membranes in sheep. METHODS Twelve fetal lambs of 105 days' gestational age (term = 145 days) were exteriorized partially, via a midline laparotomy and hysterotomy, and arterial catheters and flow probes were inserted surgically. The 10 surviving fetuses were returned to the uterus, which was then closed and insufflated with cold, dry (22 °C at 0-5% humidity, n = 5) or heated, humidified (40 °C at 100% humidity, n = 5) CO2 at 15 mmHg for 180 min. Fetal membranes were collected immediately after insufflation for histological analysis. Physiological data and membrane leukocyte counts, suggestive of membrane inflammation, were compared between the two groups. RESULTS After 180 min of insufflation, fetal survival was 0% in the group which underwent PACI with cold, dry CO2 , and 60% (n = 3) in the group which received heated, humidified gas. While all insufflated fetuses became progressively hypercapnic (PaCO2 > 68 mmHg), this was considerably less pronounced in those in which heated, humidified gas was used: after 120 min of insufflation, compared with those receiving cold, dry gas (n = 3), fetuses undergoing heated, humidified PACI (n = 5) had lower arterial partial pressure of CO2 (mean ± standard error of the mean, 82.7 ± 9.1 mmHg for heated, humidified CO2 vs 170.5 ± 28.5 for cold, dry CO2 during PACI, P < 0.01), lower lactate levels (1.4 ± 0.4 vs 8.5 ± 0.9 mmol/L, P < 0.01) and higher pH (pH, 7.10 ± 0.04 vs 6.75 ± 0.04, P < 0.01). There was also a non-significant trend for fetal carotid artery pressure to be higher following PACI with heated, humidified compared with cold, dry CO2 (30.5 ± 1.3 vs 8.7 ± 5.5 mmHg, P = 0.22). Additionally, the median (interquartile range) number of leukocytes in the chorion was significantly lower in the group undergoing PACI with heated, humidified CO2 compared with the group receiving cold, dry CO2 (0.7 × 10-5 (0.5 × 10-5 ) vs 3.2 × 10-5 (1.8 × 10-5 ) cells per square micron, P = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS PACI with cold, dry CO2 causes hypercapnia, acidosis, hypotension and fetal membrane inflammation in fetal sheep, raising potential concerns for its use in humans. It seems that using heated, humidified CO2 for insufflation partially mitigates these effects and this may be a suitable alternative for reducing the risk of fetal acid-base disturbances during, and fetal membrane inflammation following, complex fetoscopic surgery. © 2018 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- B. J. Amberg
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical ResearchMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - R. J. Hodges
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical ResearchMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - A. J. Kashyap
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical ResearchMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - S. M. Skinner
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical ResearchMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - K. A. Rodgers
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical ResearchMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - E. V. McGillick
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical ResearchMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - J. A. Deprest
- Institute of Woman's HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Organ Systems, Faculty of MedicineKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - S. B. Hooper
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical ResearchMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - K. J. Crossley
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical ResearchMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - P. L. J. DeKoninck
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical ResearchMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyErasmus MC‐Sophia Children's HospitalRotterdamThe Netherlands
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Sanz Cortes M. Heated humidified carbon dioxide for partial uterine insufflation in fetoscopic myelomeningocele repair: insights from animal model. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2019; 53:290-292. [PMID: 30835369 DOI: 10.1002/uog.20227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Linked Comment: Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2018; 53: 340-347.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Sanz Cortes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; and Texas Children's Hospital, Pavilion for Women, 6651 Main St., Suite 1040.20, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
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13
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Sanz Cortes M, Davila I, Torres P, Yepez M, Lee W, Guimaraes CV, Sangi-Haghpeykar H, Whitehead WE, Castillo J, Nassr AA, Espinoza J, Shamshirsaz AA, Belfort MA. Does fetoscopic or open repair for spina bifida affect fetal and postnatal growth? ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2019; 53:314-323. [PMID: 30672627 DOI: 10.1002/uog.20220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2018] [Revised: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The effect of fetoscopic myelomeningocele (MMC) repair on fetal growth is unknown. Fetal surgery itself and/or exposure to a carbon dioxide (CO2 ) environment during spina bifida repair may affect placental function and impair fetal growth. Our aim was to assess and compare growth in fetuses, neonates and infants who underwent prenatal fetoscopic or open MMC repair. METHODS Fetal biometrics were obtained serially using ultrasound after fetoscopic (n = 32) or open hysterotomy (n = 34) MMC repair in utero at a single institution between November 2011 and July 2017. Measurements obtained during growth scans on initial evaluation prior to surgery, and those taken at 6 weeks post-surgery, were transformed into percentiles and compared between groups. Additional neonatal and infant anthropometric measurements, including weight, length/height and head circumference, were also transformed into percentiles and compared between the groups. The proportions of cases in each group with estimated fetal weight (EFW) or postnatal weight < 10th and < 3rd percentiles were calculated and compared. A linear mixed model was used to analyze the serial fetal growth measurements of each parameter, and random intercepts and slopes were used to compare study variables between the study groups. The duration of surgery (skin-to-skin time at fetoscopic and open MMC repair) and duration of CO2 exposure (fetoscopic repair) were evaluated for any effect on the fetal, neonatal or infant biometric percentiles. RESULTS Fetuses which underwent fetoscopic repair had a larger abdominal circumference percentile at referral (57 ± 21 vs 46 ± 23; P = 0.04). There were no other differences between the two groups in fetal biometric percentiles at the time of referral, 6 weeks post-surgery or at birth. There were no differences between groups in EFW percentile or in proportions of cases with birth weight < 10th and < 3rd percentiles. Linear mixed-model analysis did not show any significant differences in any fetal growth parameter between the groups over time. There were no significant correlations between duration of surgery or duration of CO2 exposure and any of the biometric percentiles evaluated. Postnatal growth showed no significant differences between the groups in weight, height or head circumference percentiles, at 6-18, 18-30 or > 30 months of age. CONCLUSIONS Babies exposed to fetoscopic or open MMC repair in-utero did not show significant differences in fetal or postnatal growth parameters. These results support the safety of the use of CO2 gas for fetoscopic surgery. Copyright © 2019 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Sanz Cortes
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine & Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - I Davila
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine & Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- Departmento de Obstetricia y Ginecologia, Hospital Universitario 'Dr. Jose E. Gonzalez', Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Monterrey, Mexico
| | - P Torres
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine & Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - M Yepez
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine & Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - W Lee
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine & Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - C V Guimaraes
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University & Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - H Sangi-Haghpeykar
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine & Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - W E Whitehead
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine & Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - J Castillo
- Department of Developmental Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine & Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - A A Nassr
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine & Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - J Espinoza
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine & Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - A A Shamshirsaz
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine & Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - M A Belfort
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine & Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Developmental Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine & Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
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Sanz Cortes M, Castro E, Sharhan D, Torres P, Yepez M, Espinoza J, Shamshirsaz AA, Nassr AA, Popek E, Whitehead W, Belfort MA. Amniotic membrane and placental histopathological findings after open and fetoscopic prenatal neural tube defect repair. Prenat Diagn 2019; 39:269-279. [PMID: 30609053 DOI: 10.1002/pd.5414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2018] [Revised: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe and compare placental and amniotic histology in women who underwent a fetoscopic myelomeningocele repair to those who underwent an open hysterotomy myelomeningocele repair. Also, we intended to compare findings from both prenatal repair groups to age-matched control pregnant patients. METHODS Placental and membrane histopathology from 43 prenatally repaired spina bifida cases (17 fetoscopic and 26 open) and 18 healthy controls were retrospectively assessed. Quantitative assessment of histopathology included apoptosis count and maternal and fetal underperfusion scores. Qualitative assessment included the detection of pigmented macrophages and/or signs of placental/amniotic inflammation. Associations between the duration of surgery or the duration of CO2 insufflation and quantitative histological parameters were tested. RESULTS Fetoscopic surgery cases did not show significant differences in any of the studied parameters when compared against controls. No differences were detected either when compared with open repaired cases, except for lower proportion of pigmented laden macrophages in the fetoscopic group (11.8% vs 61.5%, P < 0.01). No associations between the duration of surgery or the duration of CO2 exposure and any of the quantitative histological parameters were detected. CONCLUSIONS These preliminary results support the lack of detrimental effects of the use of heated and humidified CO2 gas for uterine insufflation to fetal membranes and placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Sanz Cortes
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine & Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Eumenia Castro
- Department of Pathology, Baylor College of Medicine & Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Dina Sharhan
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine & Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Paola Torres
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine & Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Mayel Yepez
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine & Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jimmy Espinoza
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine & Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Alireza A Shamshirsaz
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine & Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ahmed A Nassr
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine & Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Edwina Popek
- Department of Pathology, Baylor College of Medicine & Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - William Whitehead
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine & Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Michael A Belfort
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine & Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Spina bifida is the most common non-lethal congenital birth defect of the central nervous system that causes chronic disability due to the combined effects of local nerve damage and the sequelae of non-communicating hydrocephalus. This abnormality can be identified early in gestation and the damage can be progressive over the course of pregnancy. Advances in fetal treatment have made minimally invasive prenatal surgery a realistic consideration for spina bifida in order to improve the outcome for children affected this condition. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION Prenatal surgery for spina bifida via open fetal surgery with hysterotomy decreases the rate of ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement and improves motor function compared to standard postnatal surgery. Maternal risks of open fetal surgery are primarily related to complications of the hysterotomy including thinning or rupture that begins in the index pregnancy but persists for every future pregnancy. Minimizing maternal risks is the largest impetus to explore and optimize a minimally invasive fetoscopic alternative. Techniques vary from using a complete percutaneous approach to open fetoscopy, which requires laparotomy but is minimally invasive to the uterus. This allows vaginal delivery at term and no scar complications are reported thus far. Fetal short-term neurosurgical outcomes compare favorably with improvement in hindbrain herniation >70% and decreased need for treatment for hydrocephalus between 40-45% after prenatal surgery performed either fetoscopically or through open fetal surgery. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS Maternal obstetric outcomes are superior for fetoscopic spina bifida repair compared to open fetal surgery and avoids the ongoing risk in future pregnancy. Neonatal and infant benefits appear equivalent. The open fetoscopic approach minimizes the risk of ruptured membranes and subsequent preterm delivery as opposed to a completely percutaneous procedure. International collaboration is ongoing to share experience and assess long term treatment effects. CONCLUSIONS Continued refinement of a minimally invasive strategy for prenatal treatment of spina bifida is necessary to maximize benefits to the child and further minimize maternal risks and preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jena L Miller
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Johns Hopkins Center for Fetal Therapy, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA -
| | - Mari L Groves
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ahmet A Baschat
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Johns Hopkins Center for Fetal Therapy, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Skinner S, Crossley K, Amberg B, Kashyap A, Hooper S, Deprest JA, Hodges R, DeKoninck P. The effects of partial amniotic carbon dioxide insufflation in an ovine model. Prenat Diagn 2018; 38:994-1003. [PMID: 30286262 DOI: 10.1002/pd.5368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Revised: 09/27/2018] [Accepted: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aim to assess the effect of partial amniotic carbon dioxide insufflation (PACI) at increasing pressures on fetal acid-base, fetal-placental perfusion, and fetal membrane morphology in an ovine model. METHOD Pregnant ewes and fetuses were instrumented under isoflurane anesthesia at 105 days gestation (term 145 days) to monitor utero-placental blood flow, fetal and maternal blood pressure, heart rate, and blood gas status. One group (n = 6) was exposed to PACI (unheated dry CO2 ), involving 10 mm Hg stepwise increases in insufflation pressure (5 to 25 mm Hg), for 80 minutes followed by 20 minutes of desufflation. Un-insufflated controls (n = 5) were monitored for 100 minutes. At postmortem, fetal membranes were collected for histological analysis. RESULTS PACI at 25 mm Hg caused severe fetal hypercapnia (PaCO2 = 143 ± 5 vs 54 ± 5 mm Hg, P < 0.001), acidosis (pH = 6.85 ± 0.02 vs 7.25 ± 0.02, P < 0.001), hypoxia (SaO2 = 31 ± 4% vs 57 ± 4%, P = 0.01), and reduced uterine artery flow (50 ± 15 vs 196 ± 13 mL/min/kg, P = 0.005) compared with controls. These effects were greater at higher PACI pressures. PACI resulted in leukocyte infiltration in the amnion (1.77 × 10-5 ± 0.61 × 10-5 vs 0.38 × 10-5 ± 0.19 × 10-5 cells/μm2 , P = 0.04) and chorionic membranes (2.94 × 10-5 ± 0.67 × 10-5 vs 0.84 × 10-5 ± 0.42 × 10-5 cells/μm2 , P = 0.01). CONCLUSION Higher PACI pressures results in larger disturbances in fetal acid-base, uterine blood flow, and fetal membrane inflammation in sheep. Differences between human and sheep utero-placental structure should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sasha Skinner
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Perinatal Services Monash Health, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kelly Crossley
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ben Amberg
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Aidan Kashyap
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stuart Hooper
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jan A Deprest
- Division of Woman and Child, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Women and Child, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Institute of Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Ryan Hodges
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Perinatal Services Monash Health, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Philip DeKoninck
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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17
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Skinner S, DeKoninck P, Crossley K, Amberg B, Deprest J, Hooper S, Hodges R. Partial amniotic carbon dioxide insufflation for fetal surgery. Prenat Diagn 2018; 38:983-993. [PMID: 30238473 DOI: 10.1002/pd.5362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Revised: 08/01/2018] [Accepted: 09/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Partial amniotic carbon dioxide insufflation (PACI) involves insufflating the amniotic sac with carbon dioxide (CO2 ) and, in some cases, draining some of the amniotic fluid. The creation of a gaseous intra-amniotic compartment improves visualization, even in the presence of limited bleeding, and creates the work space required for complex fetoscopic procedures. Clinically, PACI is mostly used to perform fetoscopic myelomeningocele (MMC) repair, enabling a minimally invasive alternative to open fetal surgery. However, evidence of the fetal safety of PACI is limited. Previous animal experiments in sheep demonstrate that PACI induces fetal hypercapnia and acidosis with largely unknown short and longer term implications. In this review, we examine the literature for the physiological effects of intrauterine insufflation pressure, duration, humidity, and the role of maternal hyperventilation on fetal physiology and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sasha Skinner
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute for Medical Research, Clayton, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Philip DeKoninck
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute for Medical Research, Clayton, Australia.,Perinatal Services Monash Health, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Australia
| | - Kelly Crossley
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute for Medical Research, Clayton, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Benjamin Amberg
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute for Medical Research, Clayton, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Jan Deprest
- Division of Woman and Child, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Group Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Stuart Hooper
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute for Medical Research, Clayton, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Ryan Hodges
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute for Medical Research, Clayton, Australia.,Perinatal Services Monash Health, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton, Australia
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18
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Baschat AA, Ahn ES, Murphy J, Miller JL. Fetal blood-gas values during fetoscopic myelomeningocele repair performed under carbon dioxide insufflation. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2018; 52:400-402. [PMID: 29750436 DOI: 10.1002/uog.19083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2018] [Revised: 04/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/01/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Fetoscopic myelomeningocele (MMC) repair is performed using intrauterine carbon dioxide (CO2 ) insufflation. Sheep experiments have shown that CO2 insufflation is associated with significant fetal acidemia; however, corresponding data for human pregnancy are not available. We performed umbilical venous cord blood sampling in three patients during fetoscopic MMC repair at 25 + 1, 25 + 3 and 24 + 0 weeks' gestation, respectively. Fetal venous pH at the beginning of CO2 insufflation was 7.36, 7.46 and 7.37, respectively in the three fetuses, and repeat values were 7.28, 7.35 and 7.36 after 181, 159 and 149 min, respectively. The partial pressure of oxygen and CO2 was maintained in the normal range during these times, and pH decrease was less in Patient 3 who received humidified CO2 insufflation. Our observations suggest that, in contrast to sheep experiments, CO2 insufflation during fetoscopic myelomeningocele repair does not cause acidemia in human fetuses. Copyright © 2018 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- A A Baschat
- The Johns Hopkins Center for Fetal Therapy, Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - E S Ahn
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - J Murphy
- Division of Obstetric Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesia & Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - J L Miller
- The Johns Hopkins Center for Fetal Therapy, Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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20
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Partial amniotic carbon dioxide insufflation (PACI) during minimally invasive fetoscopic interventions on fetuses with spina bifida aperta. Surg Endosc 2018; 32:3138-3148. [DOI: 10.1007/s00464-018-6029-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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21
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Fetoscopic Open Neural Tube Defect Repair: Development and Refinement of a Two-Port, Carbon Dioxide Insufflation Technique. Obstet Gynecol 2017; 130:648. [DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000002221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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22
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23
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Kohl T. Impact of partial amniotic carbon dioxide insufflation (PACI) on middle cerebral artery blood flow in mid-gestation human fetuses undergoing fetoscopic surgery for spina bifida aperta. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2016; 47:521-522. [PMID: 26411355 DOI: 10.1002/uog.15761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2015] [Revised: 09/17/2015] [Accepted: 09/17/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- T Kohl
- German Center for Fetal Surgery & Minimally Invasive Therapy (DZFT), University Hospital Giessen-Marburg, Klinikstr. 33, 35592 Giessen, Germany.
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24
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Kohl T. Percutaneous minimally invasive fetoscopic surgery for spina bifida aperta. Part I: surgical technique and perioperative outcome. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2014; 44:515-524. [PMID: 24891102 DOI: 10.1002/uog.13430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2014] [Revised: 05/08/2014] [Accepted: 05/27/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To analyze the current technical approach of percutaneous minimal-access fetoscopic closure of spina bifida aperta (SBA) and provide an overview of its development in ovine and human fetuses. METHODS Minimal-access percutaneous fetoscopic closure of SBA was performed at the German Center for Fetal Surgery & Minimal-access Therapy (DZFT) in 51 human fetuses at 21.0-29.1 weeks of gestation (mean age, 23.7 weeks). Various parameters of surgical relevance for the success and safety of the procedure and the early perioperative outcome were analyzed retrospectively. In addition, information from the early clinical cases was examined to determine how this shaped development of the approach. RESULTS Percutaneous minimal-access fetoscopic closure of SBA was performed with a high rate of technical success, regardless of placental or fetal position. All fetuses survived surgery, but there was one very early preterm delivery 1 week after the procedure and this neonate died immediately, from early postoperative chorioamnionitis. Of the 50 surviving fetuses, 44 (88%) were delivered at or beyond 30 weeks and 25 (50%) at or beyond 34 weeks of gestation. There was one neonatal death from an uinsuspected case of trisomy 13 and two infant deaths from Chiari-II malformation. CONCLUSIONS Following an adequate learning curve, minimal-access fetoscopic surgery for fetal spina bifida can be performed with a high rate of technical success, regardless of placental position.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Kohl
- German Center for Fetal Surgery & Minimally Invasive Therapy (DZFT), University of Giessen-Marburg, Giessen, Germany
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25
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Flake A. Percutaneous minimal-access fetoscopic surgery for myelomeningocele - not so minimal! ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2014; 44:499-500. [PMID: 25363896 DOI: 10.1002/uog.14673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- A Flake
- Department of General, Thoracic and Fetal Surgery, Center for Fetal Diagnosis and Therapy, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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Kohl T, Ziemann M, Weinbach J, Tchatcheva K, Gembruch U, Hasselblatt M. Partial Amniotic Carbon Dioxide Insufflation During Minimally Invasive Fetoscopic Interventions Seems Safe for the Fetal Brain in Sheep. J Laparoendosc Adv Surg Tech A 2010; 20:651-3. [DOI: 10.1089/lap.2010.0068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Kohl
- German Center for Fetal Surgery and Minimally Invasive Therapy, University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Miriam Ziemann
- Department of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, University of Bonn, Germany
| | - Julia Weinbach
- Department of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, University of Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Ulrich Gembruch
- Department of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, University of Bonn, Germany
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Minimally invasive fetoscopic interventions: an overview in 2010. Surg Endosc 2010; 24:2056-67. [DOI: 10.1007/s00464-010-0879-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2009] [Accepted: 08/14/2009] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Beck V, Pexsters A, Gucciardo L, van Mieghem T, Sandaite I, Rusconi S, DeKoninck P, Srisupundit K, Kagan KO, Deprest J. The use of endoscopy in fetal medicine. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010. [DOI: 10.1007/s10397-010-0565-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Kohl T, Tchatcheva K, Weinbach J, Hering R, Kozlowski P, Stressig R, Gembruch U. Partial amniotic carbon dioxide insufflation (PACI) during minimally invasive fetoscopic surgery: early clinical experience in humans. Surg Endosc 2009; 24:432-44. [PMID: 19565298 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-009-0579-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2009] [Revised: 04/20/2009] [Accepted: 05/18/2009] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The technical performance of minimally invasive fetoscopic surgery may be severely hindered by poor visualization of intra-amniotic contents. Partial amniotic carbon dioxide insufflation (PACI) allows the visual limitations of operating within the fluid environment to be overcome. PATIENTS AND METHODS When amniotic fluid exchange failed to improve fetoscopic visualization, PACI was attempted during 37 fetoscopic procedures between 17 + 5 and 33 + 2 weeks of gestation. PACI was attempted with filtered carbon dioxide using a commercially available insufflator via one to three trocars that were percutaneously introduced into the amniotic cavity. The maximum pressure during PACI was limited by the maximum insufflation pressure (30 mmHg) generated by the insufflator. Improvement of fetoscopic visualization as well as technical, maternal, and fetal safety aspects surrounding PACI were analyzed. RESULTS PACI could successfully be instituted in 36 of the 37 procedures. In one case, when in the presence of increased uterine tone the opening pressure exceeded the maximum insufflation pressure of the insufflator, the strategy was abandoned. In all cases where PACI could be instituted successfully, the approach offered far superior visualization of the fetoscopic procedure than would have been possible within amniotic fluid. Acute or chronic maternal or fetal complications were observed in only one case (intraoperative membrane rupture). CONCLUSION PACI greatly improves fetal visualization during fetoscopic interventions when fetoscopy within fluid meets with difficulties. Continued assessment of its benefits, risks, and safety margins at specialist centers is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Kohl
- German Center for Fetal Surgery & Minimally-Invasive Therapy (DZFT)-Department of Obstetrics & Prenatal Medicine, University of Bonn Medical School, Bonn, Germany.
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Klaritsch P, Albert K, Van Mieghem T, Gucciardo L, Done’ E, Bynens B, Deprest J. Instrumental requirements for minimal invasive fetal surgery. BJOG 2008; 116:188-97. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.2008.02021.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Passerotti CC, Barnewolt C, Xuewu J, Passerotti AMA, Ward V, Dunning P, Retik AB, Nguyen HT. In Utero Treatment for Bladder Outlet Obstruction Using Robot Assisted Laparoscopic Techniques. J Urol 2008; 180:1790-4; discussion 1794. [DOI: 10.1016/j.juro.2008.03.085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2007] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Carlo C. Passerotti
- Departments of Urology (Robotic Research and Training Center) and Radiology (CB, VW, PD), Children's Hospital Boston and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Carol Barnewolt
- Departments of Urology (Robotic Research and Training Center) and Radiology (CB, VW, PD), Children's Hospital Boston and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jiang Xuewu
- Departments of Urology (Robotic Research and Training Center) and Radiology (CB, VW, PD), Children's Hospital Boston and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ana Maria A.M.S. Passerotti
- Departments of Urology (Robotic Research and Training Center) and Radiology (CB, VW, PD), Children's Hospital Boston and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Valerie Ward
- Departments of Urology (Robotic Research and Training Center) and Radiology (CB, VW, PD), Children's Hospital Boston and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Patricia Dunning
- Departments of Urology (Robotic Research and Training Center) and Radiology (CB, VW, PD), Children's Hospital Boston and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Alan B. Retik
- Departments of Urology (Robotic Research and Training Center) and Radiology (CB, VW, PD), Children's Hospital Boston and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Hiep T. Nguyen
- Departments of Urology (Robotic Research and Training Center) and Radiology (CB, VW, PD), Children's Hospital Boston and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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Till H, Yeung CK, Bower W, Shi Y, Tian Q, Chu W, Yip HY, Tse J. Fetoscopy under gas amniodistension: pressure-dependent influence of helium vs nitrous oxide on fetal goats. J Pediatr Surg 2007; 42:1255-8. [PMID: 17618890 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2007.02.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Recently, gas amniodistension has been advocated for fetoscopic surgery to employ ergonomics similar to laparoscopy. However, neither the optimal type of gas nor its physiological influence on the fetus have been clearly outlined yet. This study investigates the impact of helium (HE) vs nitrous oxide (N2O) on fetal goats during fetoscopy. METHODS We insufflated either HE or N2O in 12 pregnant goats (15 fetuses; HE = 7, N2O = 8), then increased the pressures from 0, 4, 7, to 10 mm Hg in 30-minute intervals and recorded the fetal and maternal vital parameters. Finally, whole-body computed tomography to asses for intracorporeal gas was performed. RESULTS All fetuses survived. Mean fetal vital signs showed no significant differences between HE or N2O at specific pressure levels. In detail, HE/N2O at 0 vs 10 mm Hg caused a fetal temperature decrease (32.9 degrees C/33.2 degrees C vs 32 degrees C/32.5 degrees C), heart rate increase in the N2O group (100/102 vs 102/121 beats per minute), and no significant change in arterial pressure (45.8/48.3 vs 53.7/46.7 mm Hg). The PO2 was adequate (3.7/3.3 vs 3.7/2.9 kPa), whereas the pH remained unchanged (7.4/7.3 vs 7.3/7.3). However, fetal pCO2 was elevated in the N2O group before insufflation (5.5/7.2 vs 6.8/8.0 kPa) owing to maternal hypoventilation (maternal PCO2: 4.9/5.8 vs 5.0/5.4 kPa), correction of which was slower in the fetus than in the maternal animal. Computed tomography ruled out intracorporeal gas accumulation. CONCLUSION Neither HE nor N2O impose significant physiological harm for the fetus. Heating of the gas and maternal anesthesia seem essential. Considering the potential teratogenicity of N2O, however, HE could be the favorable environment for fetoscopic procedures under gas amniodistension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holger Till
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, University of Leipzig, Childrens' Hospital, 04317 Leipzig, Germany.
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Kohl T, Tchatcheva K, Berg C, Geipel A, Van de Vondel P, Gembruch U. Partial amniotic carbon dioxide insufflation (PACI) facilitates fetoscopic interventions in complicated monochorionic twin pregnancies. Surg Endosc 2007; 21:1428-33. [PMID: 17294312 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-006-9183-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2006] [Revised: 09/22/2006] [Accepted: 10/01/2006] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adequate visualization of the placenta or umbilical cord during fetoscopic procedures in complicated monochorionic twin pregnancies may be difficult because of placental position and spatial constraints, as well as stained amniotic fluid. Partial amniotic carbon dioxide insufflation (PACI) has made it possible to overcome these obstacles in other fetoscopic procedures, but its value has not yet been reported in monochorionic twins. METHODS Partial amniotic carbon dioxide insufflation was carried out in five expectant women with complicated monochorionic twin pregnancies between 19 + 6 to 29 + 4 weeks of gestation when adequate fetoscopic visualization of pathological placental surface vessels or the umbilical cord was impossible because of stained or too little amniotic fluid. In four cases, five fetoscopic laser ablations of pathological placental vessels in twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) were performed. In one discordant twin pregnancy with TTTS, PACI was carried out in order to achieve umbilical cord ligation in a recipient with omphalocele and cardiac malformation. RESULTS Partial amniotic carbon dioxide insufflation offered superior visualization and did not result in any acute maternal or fetal complications. After fetoscopic laser coagulation, three women delivered one fetus at 27 + 5, two fetuses at 28 + 6, and two fetuses at 35 + 4 weeks of gestation, respectively. One set of twins with TTTS was lost. Following umbilical cord ligation, the surviving twin was delivered at 37 + 2 weeks of gestation. CONCLUSIONS Partial amniotic carbon dioxide insufflation may facilitate fetoscopic procedures in complicated monochorionic twin pregnancies when conventional fetoscopic approaches within amniotic fluid meet difficulties. Further studies are required to allow assessment of benefits, risks, and safety margins of the new approach before it can generally be recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Kohl
- German Center for Fetal Surgery & Minimally Invasive Therapy, Department of Obstetrics & Prenatal Medicine, University of Bonn, 53105, Bonn, Germany.
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Muensterer OJ, Herrmanns VJ, Metzger R, Till H. Efficacy of Electrocautery in Different Media: Air, Perfluorodecalin, Glycerine, Glycine, and Electrolyte Solution. J Laparoendosc Adv Surg Tech A 2006; 16:659-62. [PMID: 17243892 DOI: 10.1089/lap.2006.16.659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Electrocautery during fetoscopic surgery is impossible in the electrolyte-containing amniotic fluid. Intrauterine insufflation of carbon dioxide may cause lethal hypercapnia and acidosis in the fetus. Therefore, other media must be considered. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy of electrocautery in different media that have been described for fetoscopic surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS Using bipolar electrocautery, lesions were made in 16 skin/cartilage specimens from the ears of New Zealand White rabbits in 5 different media: air, 85% glycerine, 1.5% glycine, electrolyte solution, and perfluorodecalin. The efficacy of electrocautery in the different media was compared by calculating mean necrosis indices--the quotient of native to necrosed tissue thickness--and assessing the qualitative histologic changes. RESULTS In all media except the electrolyte solution, the cauterized areas showed clear sequellae of electrocautery such as thinning, loss of tissue architecture, increased stromal staining, and nuclear disintegration. Mean necrosis indices were 1.38 +/- 0.24 for air, 1.37 +/- 0.28 for glycerine, 1.32 +/- 0.23 for perfluorodecalin, 1.31 +/- 0.14 for glycine, and 1.05 +/- 0.10 for electrolyte solution (P < 0.01 for electrolyte solution compared to all other media). No significant differences were detected between the nonconductive substances. CONCLUSION In our tests, air, glycine, glycerine, and perfluorodecalin allowed similarly effective electrocauterization. As expected, bipolar electrocautery in electrolyte solution is ineffective. The perfluorocarbon perfluorodecalin may have other potential advantages as a medium in endosurgery, such as low surface tension, biologic inertia, optical clarity, and insolubility of blood.
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Kohl T, Hering R, Van de Vondel P, Tchatcheva K, Berg C, Bartmann P, Heep A, Franz A, Müller A, Gembruch U. Analysis of the stepwise clinical introduction of experimental percutaneous fetoscopic surgical techniques for upcoming minimally invasive fetal cardiac interventions. Surg Endosc 2006; 20:1134-43. [PMID: 16763924 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-005-0662-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2005] [Accepted: 01/28/2006] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study assessed the feasibility and safety of surgical techniques developed in sheep for fetoscopic fetal cardiac interventions during three selected less complex procedures for noncardiac fetal conditions in humans. On the basis of this assessment, the implications for the clinical introduction of minimally invasive fetoscopic fetal cardiac interventions in the near future are discussed. METHODS The authors performed 16 percutaneous fetoscopic procedures in 13 human fetuses at between 19 + 2 and 34 + 6 weeks of gestation, then analyzed various parameters of surgical relevance for minimally invasive fetoscopic fetal cardiac interventions. Each of the three noncardiac malformations posed typical surgical challenges that will be critical for the technical success of minimally invasive fetoscopic cardiac interventions. RESULTS Overall technical success was achieved in 14 of the 16 procedures. Percutaneous fetoscopic surgery did not result in any untoward effects and was well tolerated by all but two pregnant women: one with bleeding complication and one with mild postoperative pulmonary edema. No fetal complications or injuries from the various percutaneous fetoscopic surgical approaches were observed. CONCLUSIONS The author's experience with surgical techniques introduced for percutaneous fetoscopic fetal cardiac intervention in selected noncardiac fetal lesions has led them to believe the time has come for the clinical introduction of fetoscopic fetal cardiac interventions. After an adequate learning curve supervised by committees of human research, the overall outcome and quality of postnatal life for the unborn patients ultimately will determine whether fetoscopic or other fetal cardiac interventions will be better therapeutic alternatives to currently available postnatal procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Kohl
- German Center for Fetal Surgery and Minimally Invasive Therapy, Department of Obstetrics & Prenatal Medicine, University of Bonn Medical School, 53105, Bonn, Germany.
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Kohl T, Reckers J, Strümper D, Grosse Hartlage M, Gogarten W, Gembruch U, Vogt J, Van Aken H, Scheld HH, Paulus W, Rickert CH. Amniotic air insufflation during minimally invasive fetoscopic fetal cardiac interventions is safe for the fetal brain in sheep. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2004; 128:467-71. [PMID: 15354110 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtcvs.2004.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Amniotic air insufflation during experimental fetoscopic fetal cardiac interventions greatly improves the visualization of intra-amniotic contents. The purpose of this study was to assess any histologically discernible effects from this approach on the fetal brain after short-term studies and long-term survival in sheep. METHODS Thirty pregnant ewes between 80 and 110 days of gestation underwent amniotic air insufflation during various fetoscopic fetal cardiac interventions. After 18 short-term and 12 long-term studies, the brains of the operated fetuses and-if available-their unoperated siblings were examined for hemorrhage, embolism, infarctions, inflammatory changes, and abnormal cortical maturation. RESULTS Amniotic air insufflation during minimally invasive fetoscopic fetal cardiac interventions did not result in any histologically discernible damage to the brain in short-term and long-term studies in any but 2 sibling sheep. In the 2 affected siblings, a small area of chronic cortical frontal lobe infarction was observed after long-term survival. CONCLUSIONS Amniotic air insufflation during minimally invasive percutaneous fetoscopic fetal cardiac interventions is safe for the fetal brain and does not compromise maternal hemodynamics in sheep. These findings encourage further investigation of the role this technique might play during fetoscopic fetal cardiac interventions in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Kohl
- Division of Obstetrics & Prenatal Medicine, University Hospital of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Since the early 1990s, advances in endoscopic equipment and the commercial availability of micro-catheters, mini-balloons, tiny laser fibers and other ingenious tools have set the trend toward the development of minimally invasive fetoscopic surgical techniques for the treatment of some congenital malformations that progress in severity over the course of gestation and may destroy entire organ systems of the unborn. The purpose of this review is to provide a state-of-the-art overview of these new procedures for the anesthesiologist. RECENT FINDINGS Procedures like diagnostic fetoscopies, laser coagulation of inter-twin placental vascular connections in twin-twin transfusion syndrome, fetal tracheal balloon occlusion in diaphragmatic hernia, laser perforation of posterior urethral valves, vocal cord division in congenital high-airway obstruction syndrome and most recently even coverage of spina bifida aperta can be performed entirely percutaneously using minimally invasive fetoscopic techniques. Careful selection of anesthetic methods and intensive maternal monitoring by the anesthesiology team are paramount to the success of these procedures, particularly in hemodynamically unstable fetuses or procedures that employ gas insufflation of the amniotic cavity. SUMMARY An increasing spectrum of congenital malformations can be treated by fetoscopic surgery. Compared to open fetal surgery, fetoscopic surgery results in significantly less maternal trauma. Like the open procedures, the efficacy of the fetoscopic procedures to improve fetal outcome over postnatal treatment strategies will have to be assessed in further studies under close supervision of committees for human research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Kohl
- German Center for Fetal Surgery and Minimally-Invasive Therapy, Department of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
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Fowler SF, Sydorak RM, Albanese CT, Farmer DL, Harrison MR, Lee H. Fetal endoscopic surgery: lessons learned and trends reviewed. J Pediatr Surg 2002; 37:1700-2. [PMID: 12483634 DOI: 10.1053/jpsu.2002.36699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Fetal surgery is performed increasingly with minimal access approaches. The authors report their experience with fetal endoscopic procedures (fetendo) with emphasis on changing techniques and outcome trends. METHODS All fetal endoscopic cases performed at a single institution from January 1996 to August 2001 were reviewed (n = 66). Cases were examined with respect to year performed, type of operation, operative data, and outcome. RESULTS Twin-twin transfusion syndrome (26 cases) and congenital diaphragmatic hernia (35 cases) were the most common diseases treated. From 1996 to 2001, there was a decrease in average operating time (256 to 127 minutes [P =.0006]), number of ports utilized (3.8 to one [P =.00001]), pump volume (28.7 to 2.7 L [P =.00001]), and estimated blood loss (408 to 29 mL [P =.008]). In addition, port size changed from 10 mm to 5 mm. Chorioamniotic separation (31 of 66), premature rupture of membranes (32 of 66), chorioamnionitis (12 of 66), and fetal death (10 of 66) continued to be significant complications. CONCLUSIONS Fetal endoscopic surgery over the last 6 years has evolved toward shorter operating time, the use of smaller and fewer ports, decreased pump fluid exchange, and decreased blood loss, with the types of cases centered on twin-twin transfusion syndrome and congenital diaphragmatic hernia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven F Fowler
- Department of Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery and Fetal Treatment Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Gratacós E, Wu J, Devlieger R, Bonati F, Lerut T, Vanamo K, Deprest JA. Nitrous oxide amniodistention compared with fluid amniodistention reduces operation time while inducing no changes in fetal acid-base status in a sheep model for endoscopic fetal surgery. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2002; 186:538-43. [PMID: 11904620 DOI: 10.1067/mob.2002.120482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Our purpose was to evaluate in a sheep model for endoscopic fetal surgery the impact of nitrous oxide-gas amniodistention compared with fluid amniodistention on duration of surgery, hemorrhagic events, and fetomaternal acid-base status. STUDY DESIGN Pregnant ewes (n = 16) at 92 to 104 days of gestation (term, 145 days) underwent amniodistention with Hartmann's solution (group I, n = 8) or nitrous oxide (group II, n = 8) at 38 degrees C. Endoscopic tracheal clipping according to a standardized surgical protocol was performed in all animals. The duration of fetoscopy (from insertion of first cannula until removal of last one), fetal surgery (fetal skin incision to skin closure), and number of bleeding episodes was recorded. Maternal and fetal blood gas values (pH, PO2, and PCO2) were measured at baseline and every 15 minutes during the experiment. Videotapes of the operations were assessed independently and scored by a visual analog scale in terms of smoothness of the operation and control of hemorrhagic events. RESULTS Mean duration of fetoscopy (+/-SEM) (68 +/- 16 minutes vs 92 +/- 23 minutes) and fetal surgery (19 +/- 6 minutes vs 42 +/- 18 minutes) as well as number of bleeding episodes (1.9 +/- 0.8 minutes vs 5.8 +/- 2.1 minutes) was significantly reduced in animals operated with use of nitrous oxide amniodistention. In both groups, fetal and maternal blood gases remained unchanged during the entire experiment. Visual analog scale (VAS) scores were significantly higher for procedures conducted with use of gas distention. CONCLUSION In a lamb model for fetal surgery, gas amniodistention with use of nitrous oxide results in a quicker operation procedure with less bleeding compared with fluid amniodistention, and without adverse side effects on fetomaternal acid-base status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduard Gratacós
- Center for Surgical Technologies, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Gasthuisberg and Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Belgium
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