We emphasize the high degree of reliability of prenatal ultrasound in the establishment of diagnosis of urinary tract malformations and the prediction of postnatal outcomes.
Pseudoamniotic band syndrome (PABS) is an iatrogenic complication that causes entanglement of fetal parts in a constrictive sheet of detached or ruptured amniotic membrane after an invasive procedure, namely amniocentesis, amnioreduction or septostomy in twins. The incidence and risk factors for PABS after fetoscopy-guided laser have not been documented [Winer et al.: Am J Obstet Gynecol 2008;198:393.e1–393.e5]. We report a case of monochorionic biamniotic twin pregnancy submitted to selective fetoscopic laser photocoagulation for twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome at 16 weeks of gestation. The procedure was complicated by the death of one of the fetuses at 24 weeks of gestation. Moreover, the surviving twin was diagnosed postnatally with pseudoamniotic band syndrome, presenting with affected limbs. The newborn was submitted to surgical correction of these lesions with a successful outcome and was discharged on day 15.
Ureteroceles are cystic dilations of the intravesical submucosal ureter. Most cases are associated with complete ureteral and renal duplication, and association with ureterohydronephrosis is frequent. The authors describe the 4 cases of fetal ureterocele diagnosed from March 2008 to March 2012. Mean gestational age at diagnosis was 23 weeks (16-34 weeks). One of 4 cases progressed to severe hydronephrosis with megacystis and was referred to a Fetal Medicine Center for fetoscopy and laser ureterocelotomy. The remaining 3 cases did not need fetal therapy. Mean gestational age at delivery was 37 weeks. One case abandoned follow-up; 2 children were submitted to cystoscopic ureterocele incision and the child submitted to fetal therapy needed heminephrectomy due to recurrent urinary tract infections. In those 3 cases renal function was preserved. When a fetal ureterocele is diagnosed, close sonographic surveillance should be offered to monitor the possible urinary tract obstruction and assess the need for prenatal intervention. Fetal diagnosis is important to program the timing of delivery and postnatal care.
The best clinical approach to a fetal ovarian cyst is controversial. In this small series, three of the five cysts regressed spontaneously, including a hemorrhagic one. Once a fetal ovarian cyst is diagnosed, ultrasonographic monitoring should be provided in order to identify complications and define the best therapeutic approach.
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