Fetal conditions occur as your unborn baby develops in the womb. These conditions are also known as congenital conditions, which means a child is born with them.
Specialists at the Fetal Care Center at WashU Medicine, Barnes-Jewish Hospital and St. Louis Children’s Hospital use the latest technology to identify fetal problems early on. We specialize in providing top quality care for both mother and baby.
Certain conditions during pregnancy can pose risks to the fetus, including advanced maternal age, genetic abnormalities and maternal health issues such as diabetes or hypertension. Symptoms indicating possible fetal complications might include abnormal ultrasound findings, decreased fetal movements and abnormal maternal blood test results. Early detection and monitoring are critical in managing these risk factors effectively.
Call us for an appointment: 314-454-6022
Accurate diagnosis and advanced treatment options
Our center offers advanced diagnostic techniques, including high-resolution ultrasounds, fetal MRIs and genetic testing, to accurately diagnose fetal conditions as early as possible during pregnancy.
Once a diagnosis is made, our specialists will outline a personalized treatment plan.
Treatment options depend on the condition, but may include medication management, non-invasive procedures and, when necessary, fetal surgery.
Our goal is to provide the least invasive treatment needed to address the condition effectively. When surgery is necessary, our fetal care surgeons have the expertise to address even the most serious issues.
Why choose WashU Medicine for fetal care
- Our advanced technology and techniques help detect fetal problems early and provide the best possible care for mother and baby.
- We bring together experts from multiple specialties to be sure you and your unborn baby receive all the care you need.
- Barnes-Jewish Hospital and St. Louis Children’s Hospital are consistently ranked among the top hospitals in the nation, and #1 in Missouri.
Expert surgical care
In some cases, fetal conditions may require surgical intervention.
Our Fetal Care Center is renowned for its expertise in fetal surgery, offering procedures such as fetoscopic surgery, open fetal surgery and minimally invasive techniques. Our team of surgeons, anesthesiologists and perinatologists work collaboratively to ensure the highest standards of care are maintained throughout the surgical process.
Surgeons at WashU Medicine are experts performing complex procedures, including:
- Twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS): a complication of monochorionic twin pregnancies where abnormal blood vessel connections cause an imbalanced blood flow between the twins, leading to potential health risks for both
- Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH): a birth defect where a hole in the diaphragm allows abdominal organs to move into the chest cavity, impairing lung development
- Myelomeningocele (Spina bifida): a type of neural tube defect where the spinal cord and its surrounding structures protrude through a gap in the spine, potentially leading to neurological impairments
- Congenital pulmonary airway malformations (CPAM): a rare lung abnormality where a cystic mass forms within the lung tissue, which can affect breathing and lung function
- Sacrococcygeal teratoma (SCT): a tumor located at the base of the tailbone (coccyx) in newborns, which can vary in size and complexity and may cause complications if not treated
These conditions are among the most commonly treated at the Barnes-Jewish Hospital Fetal Care Center, where our experienced team provides expert surgical intervention and comprehensive care to ensure the best possible outcomes for both mother and baby.
Fetal care specialists at WashU Medicine
Recovery
After surgery, both mother and baby will receive continuous monitoring and care.
For newborns, our NICU is equipped with cutting-edge technology and staffed by experienced neonatologists to provide specialized care to newborns with complex medical needs. The center also offers rehabilitation services to support both physical and emotional recovery for the family.
Managing medication and procedures
Managing medication during pregnancy can be challenging.
Our team provides comprehensive medication management, ensuring that treatments are safe for both mother and fetus. We also offer guidance on what to expect during various procedures and treatments, helping to ease any concerns you may have.
What to expect and potential complications
We strive to provide clear and detailed information about what to expect during your time at our center.
While we aim for the best outcomes, it is important to be aware of potential complications. Our team will discuss these with you openly and plan for any contingencies, ensuring you are well-prepared.
Long-term support
Our commitment to your family continues even after your baby is born.
We provide extensive aftercare services, including follow-up appointments, developmental assessments and parental support groups. Our goal is to support your family’s long-term health and well-being.
Rehabilitation and support services
Rehabilitation is an integral part of our care plan.
We offer a range of services to support physical recovery and emotional well-being, including physical therapy, occupational therapy and counseling services for families.
At Barnes-Jewish Hospital’s Fetal Care Center, we are here to support you every step of the way, providing the specialized care and compassionate support you need. Your journey is our priority and we are committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for you and your baby.