Fetoscopic tracheal occlusion for the treatment of severe congenital diaphragmatic hernia: preliminary results

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate survival and lung growth in fetuses with severe congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) treated with fetoscopic tracheal occlusion (FETO) compared with control fetuses and to analyze possible complications of the anesthetic techniques used. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This prospective study was performed on fetuses with CDH. FETO was undertaken before the 29th week of gestation on fetuses with a lung-to-head ratio (LHR) less than 1. FETO was not performed on fetuses with an LHR between 1.0 and 1.5 or those with an LHR less than 1 where consent was not given. Lung growth was monitored by means of LHR. FETO was performed under fetal intramuscular anesthesia and maternal epidural anesthesia and sedation with remifentanil. RESULTS: Seventeen fetuses were included in the study. FETO was performed on 11 fetuses and was effective in 9. The median percentage difference between LHR at diagnosis and prior to FETO was 1.15% (P=.183); between diagnosis and before removing the balloon, the difference was 130.5% (P=.003); and between diagnosis and before delivery, 90.18% (P=.003). In the control group (n=6), the median percentage difference between LHR at diagnosis and before delivery was 49.25% (P=.028). No significant hemodynamic or respiratory changes occurred in either mother or fetus during fetoscopy. All the fetuses in the control group died; 45.5% of those in the FETO group survived. CONCLUSIONS: The use of FETO in cases of CDH appears to increase survival and lung growth. Fetal anesthesia in association with maternal epidural anesthesia and sedation makes it possible to place and remove the endotracheal balloon via fetoscopy with acceptable maternal comfort and without notable complications.