Ex-utero intrapartum treatment: a controlled approach to the management of anticipated airway problems in the newborn

GM Chu, V Yue, V Addullah, HB Chan, WK To, MY Chan, A Kwan
Department of Otorhinolaryngology, United Christian Hospital, Kwun Tong, Hong Kong

Airway problems in an unborn foetus that may cause obstruction can be safely managed using an ex-utero intrapartum technique. Advanced technology now allows many congenital airway problems to be diagnosed in the prenatal period. Careful prenatal planning of an ex-utero intrapartum treatment allows safe airway control while the foetus remains on uteroplacental support. It avoids the need for emergent intervention of an acutely obstructed airway in a neonate that often has disastrous consequences.

Hong Kong Med J 2006;12:381-4

Key words: Airway obstruction; Fetus/surgery, Head and neck neoplasms; Lymphangioma, cystic; Tracheostomy