Robotic Surgery

prenatal-counselling

Prenatal Counselling for Pediatric Surgical Conditions

Prenatal counselling for pediatric surgical conditions is a specialized form of prenatal counselling that focuses on diagnosing, understanding, and preparing for congenital anomalies in the fetus that may require surgical treatment after birth—or, in some cases, even before birth (fetal surgery). This counselling is typically provided by a multidisciplinary team including obstetricians, maternal-fetal medicine specialists, pediatric surgeons, neonatologists, and genetic counsellors.

Purpose of Prenatal Counselling for Pediatric Surgical Conditions

  • Early detection of congenital anomalies through ultrasound or fetal MRI.
  • Parental education about the nature and severity of the condition.
  • Planning for delivery and postnatal surgical care.
  • Emotional support and helping families make informed decisions, including the possibility of fetal surgery or pregnancy continuation.

Common Pediatric Surgical Conditions Identified Prenatally

Category Examples
Neural tube defects Myelomeningocele (spina bifida)
Gastrointestinal anomalies Esophageal atresia, duodenal atresia, gastroschisis, omphalocele
Thoracic anomalies Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM)
Urological anomalies Posterior urethral valves, hydronephrosis
Abdominal wall defects Gastroschisis, omphalocele
Other Sacrococcygeal teratoma, congenital heart defects (often co-managed with cardiologists)

Benefits of Prenatal Surgical Counselling

  • Reduces parental anxiety by providing clear expectations.
  • Improves neonatal outcomes through planned, timely intervention.
  • Supports informed decision-making, including options like palliative care or surgery.