The following applies to all our treatment attempts: We always proceed as gently as possible and use standardized and regularly updated treatment plans: The minimally invasive procedures at our center are either ultrasound-guided using small hollow needles or performed as “keyhole surgery” using one to three small surgical tubes (fetoscopic surgery). Depending on the procedure, the outer diameter of the instruments is only one to five millimeters.
These minimally invasive treatment techniques are the main alternative to so-called “open fetal surgery,” whose name explains the procedure. The pregnant woman’s abdomen and uterus are opened via long incisions in order to reach and treat the unborn child. We avoid this highly invasive method as a matter of principle.
What sounds like a matter of course is unfortunately not: pain-free treatment is at the core of our philosophy. To avoid any unnecessary stress for our patients, we only use pain-free treatment methods. This ensures both the well-being of our patients and the success of the treatment.
Most procedures are performed under local anesthesia of the maternal abdominal wall and uterus. If this option is also
suitable for you, we are happy to offer you the option of having your partner accompany and support you during the procedure.
For more technically complex operations, a special anesthesia protocol has been developed that is both safe and minimally stressful for you and your child.The range of conditions treated prenatally at the DZFT is listed under “Clinical pictures.”