[Intrauterine therapy for nonimmune hydrops fetalis (NIHF)--analysis of 38 cases].
Keywords
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
The aim of the study was to perform an audit the results of fetal therapy in cases of nonimmune hydrops fetalis (NIHF), isolated hydrothorax and isolated ascites.
METHODS
A total of 38 fetuses (17-35 weeks of pregnancy) were included in the study whereas 6 patients were excluded due to abnormal karyotype. NIHF was diagnosed in 24 cases, hydrothorax in 4 cases, and ascites in 4 cases. Shunts were implanted in 26 (81%) cases and 7 (19%) participants underwent therapeutic cordocentesis.
RESULTS
After therapy anterior-posterior diameter of the right and the left lung increased to 9.6 mm (27%) and 12.4 mm (35%), respectively. Early complications were observed in 5 (16%) cases. PROM 2 (40%), fetal death 1 (20%), infection 1 (20%), and preterm delivery 1 (20%). Out of the 27 patients, 65% had a caesarian section without early complications and 35% had a vaginal delivery with 58% at term and 42% pre-term.
CONCLUSIONS
Preceding results show that intrauterine therapy significantly improves prognosis of fetuses with NIHF.