Polystyrene micro- and nanoplastics cause placental dysfunction in mice†.

Maternal exposure to microplastics and nanoplastics has been shown to result in fetal growth restriction in mice. In this study, we investigated the placental and fetal hemodynamic responses to plastics exposure in mice using high-frequency ultrasound. Healthy, pregnant CD-1 dams were given either 106 ng/L of 5 µm polystyrene microplastics or 106 ng/L of 50 nm polystyrene nanoplastics in drinking water throughout gestation and were compared with controls. Maternal exposure to both microplastics and nanoplastics resulted in evidence of placental dysfunction that was highly dependent on the particle size. The umbilical artery blood flow increased by 48% in the microplastic-exposed group and decreased by 25% in the nanoplastic-exposed group compared to controls (p < 0.05). The microplastic- and nanoplastic-exposed fetuses showed a significant decrease in the middle cerebral artery pulsatility index of 10% and 13%, respectively, compared to controls (p < 0.05), indicating vasodilation of the cerebral circulation, a fetal adaptation that is part of the brain sparing response to preserve oxygen delivery. Hemodynamic markers of placental dysfunction and fetal hypoxia were more pronounced in the group exposed to polystyrene nanoplastics, suggesting nanoplastic exposure during human pregnancy has the potential to disrupt fetal brain development, which in turn may cause suboptimal neurodevelopmental outcomes.

Diagnosis and management of selective fetal growth restriction in monochorionic twin pregnancies: A cross-sectional international survey.

OBJECTIVE: To identify current practices in the management of selective fetal growth restriction (sFGR) in monochorionic diamniotic (MCDA) twin pregnancies. DESIGN: Cross-sectional survey. SETTING: International. POPULATION: Clinicians involved in the management of MCDA twin pregnancies with sFGR. METHODS: A structured, self-administered survey. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Clinical practices and attitudes to diagnostic criteria and management strategies. RESULTS: Overall, 62.8% (113/180) of clinicians completed the survey; of which, 66.4% (75/113) of the respondents reported that they would use an estimated fetal weight (EFW) of <10th centile for the smaller twin and an inter-twin EFW discordance of >25% for the diagnosis of sFGR. For early-onset type I sFGR, 79.8% (75/94) of respondents expressed that expectant management would be their routine practice. On the other hand, for early-onset type II and type III sFGR, 19.3% (17/88) and 35.7% (30/84) of respondents would manage these pregnancies expectantly, whereas 71.6% (63/88) and 57.1% (48/84) would refer these pregnancies to a fetal intervention centre or would offer fetal intervention for type II and type III cases, respectively. Moreover, 39.0% (16/41) of the respondents would consider fetoscopic laser surgery (FLS) for early-onset type I sFGR, whereas 41.5% (17/41) would offer either FLS or selective feticide, and 12.2% (5/41) would exclusively offer selective feticide. For early-onset type II and type III sFGR cases, 25.9% (21/81) and 31.4% (22/70) would exclusively offer FLS, respectively, whereas 33.3% (27/81) and 32.9% (23/70) would exclusively offer selective feticide. CONCLUSIONS: There is significant variation in clinician practices and attitudes towards the management of early-onset sFGR in MCDA twin pregnancies, especially for type II and type III cases, highlighting the need for high-level evidence to guide management.

Precarious hope: Ethical considerations for offering experimental fetal therapies outside of research after initial studies in humans.

OBJECTIVE: Risks and benefits of experimental fetal therapies can remain uncertain after initial clinical studies, especially long-term effects. Nevertheless, pregnant individuals may request them, hoping to benefit their future child. Guidance about offering experimental fetal therapies outside research (as "innovative therapy") is limited, despite their ethical complexity. We propose points for clinicians and reviewers to consider when deciding whether and how to offer experimental fetal therapies as innovative therapies after initial clinical studies. METHOD: We used conceptual analysis and a current case to develop points for consideration, grounded in broader debates on innovative therapy and the unique challenges associated with experimental fetal therapies. RESULTS: Clinicians should evaluate whether offering experimental fetal therapies as innovative therapy is appropriate for a pregnant individual and their fetus. The anticipated risk-benefit ratio for the fetus should be favorable. For the pregnant individual, risks may outweigh benefits, within reasonable limits. Medical resources should be sufficient to ensure appropriate care. Clinicians should support pregnant individuals in making informed choices. Clinicians offering innovative therapies with more than minimal risk should collect and report data on outcomes. Independent review should take place. CONCLUSION: Considering these points may advance the interests of fetuses, future children, and their families.

Comparison of serial amnioinfusion strategies for isolated early-onset fetal renal anhydramnios.

Introduction The optimal protocol for serial amnioinfusions to maintain amniotic fluid in pregnancies with early onset-fetal renal anhydramnios before 22 weeks is not known. We compared the performance of two different approaches. Methods A secondary analysis was conducted of serial amnioinfusions performed by a single center during the external pilot and feasibility phases of the Renal Agenesis Fetal Therapy (RAFT) trial. During the external pilot, higher amnioinfusion volumes were given less frequently; in the feasibility study, smaller volume amnioinfusions were administered more frequently. Procedural details, complications, and obstetric outcomes were compared between the two groups using Pearson's chi-squared or Fisher's Exact tests for categorical variables and Student's t-tests or Wilcoxon Rank-Sum tests for continuous variables. The adjusted association between procedural details and chorioamniotic separation was obtained through a multivariate repeated measure logistic regression model. Results Eleven participants underwent 159 amnioinfusions (external pilot: three patients, 21 amnioinfusions; feasibility: eight patients, 138 amnioinfusions). External pilot participants had fewer amnioinfusions (7 vs. 19.5 in the feasibility group, p = 0.04), larger amnioinfusion volume (750 vs. 500 mL, p < 0.01), and longer interval between amnioinfusions (6 [4-7] vs. 4 [3-5] days, p < 0.01). In the external pilot, chorioamniotic separation was more common (28.6% vs. 5.8%, p < 0.01), preterm prelabor rupture of membranes (PPROM) occurred sooner after amnioinfusion initiation (28 ± 21.5 vs. 75.6 ± 24.1 days, p = 0.03), and duration of maintained amniotic fluid between first and last amnioinfusion was shorter (38 ± 17.3 vs. 71 ± 19 days, p=0.03), compared to the feasibility group. While delivery gestational age was similar (35.1 ± 1.7 vs. 33.8 ± 1.5 weeks, p=0.21), feasibility participants maintained amniotic fluid longer. Conclusion Small volume serial amnioinfusions performed more frequently maintain normal amniotic fluid volume longer because of delayed occurrence of PPROM.

Maternal exposure to polystyrene nanoplastics alters fetal brain metabolism in mice.

INTRODUCTION: Plastics used in everyday materials accumulate as waste in the environment and degrade over time. The impacts of the resulting particulate micro- and nanoplastics on human health remain largely unknown. In pregnant mice, we recently demonstrated that exposure to nanoplastics throughout gestation and during lactation resulted in changes in brain structure detected on MRI. One possible explanation for this abnormal postnatal brain development is altered fetal brain metabolism. OBJECTIVES: To determine the effect of maternal exposure to nanoplastics on fetal brain metabolism. METHODS: Healthy pregnant CD-1 mice were exposed to 50 nm polystyrene nanoplastics at a concentration of 106 ng/L through drinking water during gestation. Fetal brain samples were collected at embryonic day 17.5 (n = 18-21 per group per sex) and snap-frozen in liquid nitrogen. Magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance was used to determine metabolite profiles and their relative concentrations in the fetal brain. RESULTS: The relative concentrations of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), creatine and glucose were found to decrease by 40%, 21% and 30% respectively following maternal nanoplastic exposure when compared to the controls (p < 0.05). The change in relative concentration of asparagine with nanoplastic exposure was dependent on fetal sex (p < 0.005). CONCLUSION: Maternal exposure to polystyrene nanoplastics caused abnormal fetal brain metabolism in mice. The present study demonstrates the potential impacts of nanoplastic exposure during fetal development and motivates further studies to evaluate the risk to human pregnancies.

Development of a simulator for training of fetoscopic myelomeningocele surgery.

OBJECTIVE: To develop a realistic simulation model for laparotomy-assisted fetoscopic spina bifida aperta (SBa) surgery, to be used for training purposes and preoperative planning. METHODS: The predefined general requirement was a realistic model of an exteriorized uterus, allowing all neurosurgical steps of the intervention. The uterus was modelled using ultrasound and MRI images of a 25 weeks' gravid uterus, consisting of flexible polyurethane foam coated with pigmented silicone. The fetal model, contained an opening on the dorsal side for a customizable spinal insert with all the aspects of a SBa, including a cele, placode, and myofascial and skin layer. The model was assessed in a series of validation experiments. RESULTS: Production costs are low, uterus and fetus are reusable. Placental localization and the level and size of the spinal defect are adjustable, enabling case-specific adaptations. All aspects of the simulator were scored close to realistic or higher for both appearance and functional capacities. CONCLUSIONS: This innovative model provides an excellent training opportunity for centers that are starting a fetoscopic SBa repair program. It is the first simulation model with adjustable spinal defect and placental localisation. Further objective validation is required, but the potential for using this model in preoperative planning is promising.

Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy and the Cardiovascular System: Causes, Consequences, Therapy, and Prevention.

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy continue to be significant contributors to adverse perinatal outcome and maternal mortality, as well as inducing life-long cardiovascular health impacts that are proportional to the severity and frequency of pregnancy complications. The placenta is the interface between the mother and fetus and its failure to undergo vascular maturation in tandem with maternal cardiovascular adaptation by the end of the first trimester predisposes to hypertensive disorders and fetal growth restriction. While primary failure of trophoblastic invasion with incomplete maternal spiral artery remodeling has been considered central to the pathogenesis of preeclampsia, cardiovascular risk factors associated with abnormal first trimester maternal blood pressure and cardiovascular adaptation produce identical placental pathology leading to hypertensive pregnancy disorders. Outside pregnancy blood pressure treatment thresholds are identified with the goal to prevent immediate risks from severe hypertension >160/100 mm Hg and long-term health impacts that arise from elevated blood pressures as low as 120/80 mm Hg. Until recently, the trend for less aggressive blood pressure management during pregnancy was driven by fear of inducing placental malperfusion without a clear clinical benefit. However, placental perfusion is not dependent on maternal perfusion pressure during the first trimester and risk-appropriate blood pressure normalization may provide the opportunity to protect from the placental maldevelopment that predisposes to hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Recent randomized trials set the stage for more aggressive risk-appropriate blood pressure management that may offer a greater potential for prevention for hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. KEY POINTS: · Optimal management of maternal blood pressure to prevent preeclampsia and its risks is undefined.. · Early gestational rheological damage to the intervillous space predisposes to preeclampsia and FGR.. · First trimester blood pressure management may need to aim for normotension to prevent preeclampsia..

Neonatal Survival After Serial Amnioinfusions for Bilateral Renal Agenesis: The Renal Anhydramnios Fetal Therapy Trial.

Importance: Early anhydramnios during pregnancy, resulting from fetal bilateral renal agenesis, causes lethal pulmonary hypoplasia in neonates. Restoring amniotic fluid via serial amnioinfusions may promote lung development, enabling survival. Objective: To assess neonatal outcomes of serial amnioinfusions initiated before 26 weeks' gestation to mitigate lethal pulmonary hypoplasia. Design, Setting, and Participants: Prospective, nonrandomized clinical trial conducted at 9 US fetal therapy centers between December 2018 and July 2022. Outcomes are reported for 21 maternal-fetal pairs with confirmed anhydramnios due to isolated fetal bilateral renal agenesis without other identified congenital anomalies. Exposure: Enrolled participants initiated ultrasound-guided percutaneous amnioinfusions of isotonic fluid before 26 weeks' gestation, with frequency of infusions individualized to maintain normal amniotic fluid levels for gestational age. Main Outcomes and Measures: The primary end point was postnatal infant survival to 14 days of life or longer with dialysis access placement. Results: The trial was stopped early based on an interim analysis of 18 maternal-fetal pairs given concern about neonatal morbidity and mortality beyond the primary end point despite demonstration of the efficacy of the intervention. There were 17 live births (94%), with a median gestational age at delivery of 32 weeks, 4 days (IQR, 32-34 weeks). All participants delivered prior to 37 weeks' gestation. The primary outcome was achieved in 14 (82%) of 17 live-born infants (95% CI, 44%-99%). Factors associated with survival to the primary outcome included a higher number of amnioinfusions (P = .01), gestational age greater than 32 weeks (P = .005), and higher birth weight (P = .03). Only 6 (35%) of the 17 neonates born alive survived to hospital discharge while receiving peritoneal dialysis at a median age of 24 weeks of life (range, 12-32 weeks). Conclusions and Relevance: Serial amnioinfusions mitigated lethal pulmonary hypoplasia but were associated with preterm delivery. The lower rate of survival to discharge highlights the additional mortality burden independent of lung function. Additional long-term data are needed to fully characterize the outcomes in surviving neonates and assess the morbidity and mortality burden. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03101891.

Maternal exposure to polystyrene microplastics alters placental metabolism in mice.

INTRODUCTION: The rapid growth in the worldwide use of plastics has resulted in a vast accumulation of microplastics in the air, soil and water. The impact of these microplastics on pregnancy and fetal development remains largely unknown. In pregnant mice, we recently demonstrated that exposure to micro- and nanoplastics throughout gestation resulted in significant fetal growth restriction. One possible explanation for reduced fetal growth is abnormal placental metabolism. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effect of maternal exposure to microplastics on placental metabolism. METHODS: In the present study, CD-1 pregnant mice were exposed to 5 µm polystyrene microplastics in filtered drinking water at one of four concentrations (0 ng/L (controls), 102 ng/L, 104 ng/L, 106 ng/L) throughout gestation (n = 7-11/group). At embryonic day 17.5, placental tissue samples were collected (n = 28-44/group). Metabolite profiles were determined using 1 H high-resolution magic angle spinning magnetic resonance spectroscopy. RESULTS: The relative concentration of lysine (p = 0.003) and glucose (p < 0.0001) in the placenta were found to decrease with increasing microplastic concentrations, with a significant reduction at the highest exposure concentration. Multivariate analysis identified shifts in the metabolic profile with MP exposure and pathway analysis identified perturbations in the biotin metabolism, lysine degradation, and glycolysis/gluconeogenesis pathways. CONCLUSION: Maternal exposure to microplastics resulted in significant alterations in placental metabolism. This study highlights the potential impact of microplastic exposure on pregnancy outcomes and that efforts should be made to minimize exposure to plastics, particularly during pregnancy.

The role of the fetal biophysical profile in the management of fetal growth restriction.

Growth-restricted fetuses are at risk of hypoxemia, acidemia, and stillbirth because of progressive placental dysfunction. Current fetal well-being, neonatal risks following delivery, and the anticipated rate of fetal deterioration are the major management considerations in fetal growth restriction. Surveillance has to quantify the fetal risks accurately to determine the delivery threshold and identify the testing frequency most likely to capture future deterioration and prevent stillbirth. From the second trimester onward, the biophysical profile score correlates over 90% with the current fetal pH, and a normal score predicts a pH >7.25 with a 100% positive predictive value; an abnormal score on the other hand predicts current fetal acidemia with similar certainty. Between 30% and 70% of growth-restricted fetuses with a nonreactive heart rate require biophysical profile scoring to verify fetal well-being, and an abnormal score in 8% to 27% identifies the need for delivery, which is not suspected by Doppler findings. Future fetal well-being is not predicted by the biophysical profile score, which emphasizes the importance of umbilical artery Doppler and amniotic fluid volume to determine surveillance frequency. Studies with integrated surveillance strategies that combine frequent heart rate monitoring with biophysical profile scoring and Doppler report better outcomes and stillbirth rates of between 0% and 4%, compared with those between 8% and 11% with empirically determined surveillance frequency. The variations in clinical behavior and management challenges across gestational age are better addressed when biophysical profile scoring is integrated into the surveillance of fetal growth restriction. This review aims to provide guidance on biophysical profile scoring in the in- and outpatient management of fetal growth restriction.

Clinical Opinion: The diagnosis and management of suspected fetal growth restriction: an evidence-based approach.

This study reviewed the literature about the diagnosis, antepartum surveillance, and time of delivery of fetuses suspected to be small for gestational age or growth restricted. Several guidelines have been issued by major professional organizations, including the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine. The differences in recommendations, in particular about Doppler velocimetry of the ductus venosus and middle cerebral artery, have created confusion among clinicians, and this review has intended to clarify and highlight the available evidence that is pertinent to clinical management. A fetus who is small for gestational age is frequently defined as one with an estimated fetal weight of <10th percentile. This condition has been considered syndromic and has been frequently attributed to fetal growth restriction, a constitutionally small fetus, congenital infections, chromosomal abnormalities, or genetic conditions. Small for gestational age is not synonymous with fetal growth restriction, which is defined by deceleration of fetal growth determined by a change in fetal growth velocity. An abnormal umbilical artery Doppler pulsatility index reflects an increased impedance to flow in the umbilical circulation and is considered to be an indicator of placental disease. The combined finding of an estimated fetal weight of <10th percentile and abnormal umbilical artery Doppler velocimetry has been widely accepted as indicative of fetal growth restriction. Clinical studies have shown that the gestational age at diagnosis can be used to subclassify suspected fetal growth restriction into early and late, depending on whether the condition is diagnosed before or after 32 weeks of gestation. The early type is associated with umbilical artery Doppler abnormalities, whereas the late type is often associated with a low pulsatility index in the middle cerebral artery. A large randomized clinical trial indicated that in the context of early suspected fetal growth restriction, the combination of computerized cardiotocography and fetal ductus venosus Doppler improves outcomes, such that 95% of surviving infants have a normal neurodevelopmental outcome at 2 years of age. A low middle cerebral artery pulsatility index is associated with an adverse perinatal outcome in late fetal growth restriction; however, there is no evidence supporting its use to determine the time of delivery. Nonetheless, an abnormality in middle cerebral artery Doppler could be valuable to increase the surveillance of the fetus at risk. We propose that fetal size, growth rate, uteroplacental Doppler indices, cardiotocography, and maternal conditions (ie, hypertension) according to gestational age are important factors in optimizing the outcome of suspected fetal growth restriction.

Doppler Ultrasound of the Fetal Descending Aorta: An Objective Tool to Assess Placental Blood Flow Resistance in Pregnancies With Discordant Umbilical Arteries.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the relationship between blood flow in the fetal descending aorta and discordant umbilical arteries (UAs). METHODS: Pulsed wave Doppler of both UAs and the descending aorta was performed at 4-weekly intervals between 14 and 40 weeks of gestation in 209 pregnant women. In datasets with discordant UAs, a linear mixed effects model was used to determine the categorical relationship between the UA pulsatility index (PI) (high, low and average) and the descending aorta PI. RESULTS: Of the 209 cases, 81 had a discordance of greater than 25% in UA PI during one of their visits. There were no differences in birth outcomes between the groups with concordant and discordant UA PIs. In the cases with discordant UA PIs, the descending aorta PI was most strongly associated with both the average UA PI (P = .008), and with the UA with the lower PI (P = .008). CONCLUSIONS: The relationship between blood flow in the descending aorta and UAs is consistent with the law for combining resistances in parallel. Measurements of the descending aorta PI, particularly in a scenario with discordant UAs, may inform the stability of the feto-placental circulation where discordant UA PIs are found.

Current Status of the Workforce and Training at Fetal Therapy Centers in North America.

INTRODUCTION: We sought to characterize the current workforce and training for fetal intervention procedures at fetal centers in North America. METHODS: An anonymous electronic survey was developed to query the 34 centers in the North American Fetal Treatment Network regarding the demographics and training of their faculty. Telephone surveys were conducted with directors of known fetal intervention fellowships. RESULTS: More than 50% of maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) faculty at fetal centers were female; more than two-thirds of pediatric surgical faculty were male. Most of the training of faculty was undertaken by visiting more experienced centers or having new faculty work with more experienced ones at the same center. Current fetal intervention fellowships appear to achieve levels of competency for intrauterine transfusions and laser therapy for twin-twin transfusion syndrome. Two-thirds of centers stated that they would be able to offer a position to an MFM who completed a formal fellowship in fetal intervention. CONCLUSION: A collaborative effort should be undertaken to establish formal fellowships in fetal medicine and intervention.

Fetoscopic myelomeningocoele closure: Is the scientific evidence enough to challenge the gold standard for prenatal surgery?

Since the completion of the Management of Myelomeningocoele Study, maternal-fetal surgery for spina bifida has become a valid option for expecting parents. More recently, multiple groups are exploring a minimally invasive approach and recent outcomes have addressed many of the initial concerns with this approach. Based on a previously published framework, we attempt to delineate the developmental stage of the surgical techniques. Furthermore, we discuss the barriers of performing randomized controlled trials comparing two surgical interventions and suggest that data collection through registries is an alternative method to gather high-grade evidence.

ACC-AHA Diagnostic Criteria for Hypertension in Pregnancy Identifies Patients at Intermediate Risk of Adverse Outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study is to compare maternal and neonatal outcomes among patients who are normotensive, hypertensive by Stage I American College of Cardiology-American Heart Association (ACC-AHA) criteria, and hypertensive by American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) criteria. STUDY DESIGN: Secondary analysis of a prospective first trimester cohort study between 2007 and 2010 at three institutions in Baltimore, MD, was conducted. Blood pressure at 11 to 14 weeks' gestation was classified as (1) normotensive (systolic blood pressure [SBP] <130 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure [DBP] <80 mm Hg); (2) hypertensive by Stage I ACC-AHA criteria (SBP 130-139 mm Hg or DBP 80-89 mm Hg); or (3) hypertensive by ACOG criteria (SBP ≥140 mm Hg or DBP ≥90 mm Hg). Primary outcomes included preeclampsia, small for gestational age (SGA) neonate, and preterm birth. RESULTS: Among 3,422 women enrolled, 2,976 with delivery data from singleton pregnancies of nonanomalous fetuses were included. In total, 20.2% met hypertension criteria (Stage I ACC-AHA n = 254, 8.5%; ACOG n = 347, 11.7%). The Stage I ACC-AHA group's risk for developing preeclampsia was threefold higher than the normotensive group (adjusted relative risk [aRR] 3.70, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.40-5.70). The Stage I ACC-AHA group had lower preeclampsia risk than the ACOG group but the difference was not significant (aRR 0.87, 95% CI 0.55-1.37). The Stage I ACC-AHA group was more likely than the normotensive group to deliver preterm (aRR 1.44, 95% CI 1.02-2.01) and deliver an SGA neonate (aRR 1.51, 95% CI 1.07-2.12). The Stage I ACC-AHA group was less likely to deliver preterm compared with the ACOG group (aRR 0.65, 95% CI 0.45-0.93), but differences in SGA were not significant (aRR 1.31, 95% CI 0.84-2.03). CONCLUSION: Pregnant patients with Stage I ACC-AHA hypertension in the first trimester had higher rates of preeclampsia, preterm birth, and SGA neonates compared with normotensive women. Adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes were numerically lower in the Stage I ACC-AHA group compared with the ACOG group, but these comparisons only reached statistical significance for preterm birth. Optimal pregnancy management for first trimester Stage I ACC-AHA hypertension requires active study. KEY POINTS: · Women with first trimester American College of Cardiology-American Heart Association (ACC-AHA) Stage I hypertension were more likely to develop preeclampsia, deliver preterm, and deliver a small-for-gestational age neonate than normotensive women.. · Women with first trimester American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) hypertension (consistent with stage II ACC-AHA hypertension) had the highest numeric rate of adverse outcomes; however, compared with Stage I ACC-AHA hypertension, there was only statistically significant difference for preterm delivery.. · The risk profile for pregnant women with Stage I ACC-AHA hypertension and women with hypertension by conventional ACOG criteria may be more similar than previously understood..

Implementation Process and Evolution of a Laparotomy-Assisted 2-Port Fetoscopic Spina Bifida Closure Program.

INTRODUCTION: Prenatal closure of open spina bifida via open fetal surgery improves neurologic outcomes for infants in selected pregnancies. Fetoscopic techniques that are minimally invasive to the uterus aim to provide equivalent fetal benefits while minimizing maternal morbidities, but the optimal technique is undetermined. We describe the development, evolution, and feasibility of the laparotomy-assisted 2-port fetoscopic technique for prenatal closure of fetal spina bifida in a newly established program. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of women consented for laparotomy-assisted fetoscopic closure of isolated fetal spina bifida. Inclusion and exclusion criteria followed the Management of Myelomeningocele Study (MOMS). Team preparation involved observation at the originating center, protocol development, ancillary staff training, and surgical rehearsal using patient-matched models through simulation prior to program implementation. The primary outcome was the ability to complete the repair fetoscopically. Secondary maternal and fetal outcomes to assess performance of the technique were collected prospectively. RESULTS: Of 57 women screened, 19 (33%) consented for laparotomy-assisted 2-port fetoscopy between February 2017 and December 2019. Fetoscopic closure was completed in 84% (16/19) cases. Over time, the technique was modified from a single- to a multilayer closure. In utero hindbrain herniation improved in 86% (12/14) of undelivered patients at 6 weeks postoperatively. Spontaneous rupture of membranes occurred in 31% (5/16) of fetoscopic cases. For completed cases, median gestational age at birth was 37 (range 27-39.6) weeks and 50% (8/16) of women delivered at term. Vaginal birth was achieved in 56% (9/16) of patients. One newborn had a cerebrospinal fluid leak that required postnatal surgical repair. CONCLUSION: Implementation of a laparotomy-assisted 2-port fetoscopic spina bifida closure program through rigorous preparation and multispecialty team training may accelerate the learning curve and demonstrates favorable obstetric and perinatal outcomes.

External validation of prognostic models predicting pre-eclampsia: individual participant data meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Pre-eclampsia is a leading cause of maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity. Early identification of women at risk during pregnancy is required to plan management. Although there are many published prediction models for pre-eclampsia, few have been validated in external data. Our objective was to externally validate published prediction models for pre-eclampsia using individual participant data (IPD) from UK studies, to evaluate whether any of the models can accurately predict the condition when used within the UK healthcare setting. METHODS: IPD from 11 UK cohort studies (217,415 pregnant women) within the International Prediction of Pregnancy Complications (IPPIC) pre-eclampsia network contributed to external validation of published prediction models, identified by systematic review. Cohorts that measured all predictor variables in at least one of the identified models and reported pre-eclampsia as an outcome were included for validation. We reported the model predictive performance as discrimination (C-statistic), calibration (calibration plots, calibration slope, calibration-in-the-large), and net benefit. Performance measures were estimated separately in each available study and then, where possible, combined across studies in a random-effects meta-analysis. RESULTS: Of 131 published models, 67 provided the full model equation and 24 could be validated in 11 UK cohorts. Most of the models showed modest discrimination with summary C-statistics between 0.6 and 0.7. The calibration of the predicted compared to observed risk was generally poor for most models with observed calibration slopes less than 1, indicating that predictions were generally too extreme, although confidence intervals were wide. There was large between-study heterogeneity in each model's calibration-in-the-large, suggesting poor calibration of the predicted overall risk across populations. In a subset of models, the net benefit of using the models to inform clinical decisions appeared small and limited to probability thresholds between 5 and 7%. CONCLUSIONS: The evaluated models had modest predictive performance, with key limitations such as poor calibration (likely due to overfitting in the original development datasets), substantial heterogeneity, and small net benefit across settings. The evidence to support the use of these prediction models for pre-eclampsia in clinical decision-making is limited. Any models that we could not validate should be examined in terms of their predictive performance, net benefit, and heterogeneity across multiple UK settings before consideration for use in practice. TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO ID: CRD42015029349 .

Maternal azithromycin therapy for Ureaplasma parvum intraamniotic infection improves fetal hemodynamics in a nonhuman primate model.

BACKGROUND: Ureaplasma parvum infection is a prevalent cause of intrauterine infection associated with preterm birth, preterm premature rupture of membranes, fetal inflammatory response syndrome, and adverse postnatal sequelae. Elucidation of diagnostic and treatment strategies for infection-associated preterm labor may improve perinatal and long-term outcomes for these cases. OBJECTIVE: This study assessed the effect of intraamniotic Ureaplasma infection on fetal hemodynamic and cardiac function and the effect of maternal antibiotic treatment on these outcomes. STUDY DESIGN: Chronically catheterized pregnant rhesus monkeys were assigned to control (n=6), intraamniotic inoculation with Ureaplasma parvum (107 colony-forming units/mL, n=15), and intraamniotic infection plus azithromycin treatment (12.5 mg/kg twice a day intravenously, n=8) groups. At approximately 135 days' gestation (term=165 days), pulsed and color Doppler ultrasonography was used to obtain measurements of fetal hemodynamics (pulsatility index of umbilical artery, ductus venosus, descending aorta, ductus arteriosus, aortic isthmus, right pulmonary artery, middle cerebral artery and cerebroplacental ratio, and left and right ventricular cardiac outputs) and cardiac function (ratio of peak early vs late transmitral flow velocity [marker of ventricular function], Tei index [myocardial performance index]). These indices were stratified by amniotic fluid proinflammatory mediator levels and cardiac histology. RESULTS: Umbilical and fetal pulmonary artery vascular impedances were significantly increased in animals from the intraamniotic inoculation with Ureaplasma parvum group (P<.05). Azithromycin treatment restored values to control levels. Amniotic fluid prostaglandin F2 alpha levels were significantly higher in animals with abnormal umbilical artery pulsatility index (>1.1) than in those with normal blood flow (P<.05; Spearman ρ=0.6, P<.05). In the intraamniotic inoculation with Ureaplasma parvum group, left ventricular cardiac output was significantly decreased (P<.001), and more animals had abnormal right-to-left ventricular cardiac output ratios (defined as >1.6, P<.05). Amniotic fluid interleukin-6 concentrations were elevated in cases of abnormal right-to-left ventricular cardiac output ratios compared with those in normal cases (P<.05). CONCLUSION: Fetal hemodynamic alterations were associated with intraamniotic Ureaplasma infection and ameliorated after maternal antibiotic treatment. Doppler ultrasonographic measurements merit continuing investigation as a diagnostic method to identify fetal cardiovascular and hemodynamic compromise associated with intrauterine infection or inflammation and in the evaluation of therapeutic interventions or clinical management of preterm labor.

Prenatal diagnosis of Desbuquois dysplasia Type 1: Utilization of high-density SNP array to map homozygosity and identify the gene.

Desbuquois dysplasia (DBQD1 [MIM 251450]) is an autosomal recessive chondrodysplasia with micromelia, severe joint laxity and dislocations, and a characteristic radiographic "monkey wrench" appearance at the proximal femur. Type 1 Desbuquois dysplasia is caused by mutations in CANT1 and is distinct from Type 2, caused by mutations in XYLT1, in that the former has unique hand anomalies including accessory phalangeal ossification centers, advanced carpal bone maturation, and/or axial phalangeal deviation. Severe prenatal presentations have been rarely reported. We report a Pakistani female in a consanguineous relationship with a diagnosis of Type 1 Desbuquois dysplasia in three consecutive pregnancies. Multiple similar severe fetal limb anomalies were detected by ultrasound in Pregnancy 1 and 2. Regions of homozygosity within the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-microarray from both terminated fetuses were compared, revealing CANT1 as a likely disease-causing candidate gene. Insufficient fetal DNA precluded confirmatory testing, therefore parents were tested; both had a previously reported heterozygous CANT1 mutation (c.643G>T; Glu215Term). The patient presented with a third pregnancy revealing similarly abnormal limb position and probable polysyndactyly by ultrasound. Targeted testing of CANT1 revealed homozygous c.643G>T CANT1 mutations and this pregnancy was terminated. In clinical situations in which ample DNA is not available or more expensive testing (e.g., whole exome sequencing) with a longer turnaround time is not feasible, utilization of SNP-microarray in consanguineous families at risk for rare autosomal recessive disorders may dramatically narrow the list of candidate genes.

Preoperative Ultrasound Prediction of Essential Landmarks for Successful Fetoscopic Laser Treatment of Twin-Twin Transfusion Syndrome.

INTRODUCTION: The insertion site of the fetoscope for laser occlusion (FLOC) treatment of twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) determines the likelihood of treatment success. We assessed a standardized preoperative ultrasound approach for its ability to identify critical landmarks for successful FLOC. METHODS: Three surgeons independently performed preoperative ultrasound and deduced the likely orientation of the intertwin membrane (ITM) and vascular equator (VE) based on the sites of the cord insertion, the lie of the donor, and the size discordance between twins. At FLOC, these landmarks were visually verified and compared to preoperative assessments. RESULTS: Fifty consecutive FLOC surgeries had 127 preoperative assessments. Basic ITM and VE orientation were accurately predicted in 115 (90.6%), 109 (85.8%), and 105 (82.7%) assessments. Predictions were anatomically correct in 96 (75.6%), 70 (55.1%), and 58 (45.7%) assessments with no differences in accuracy between operators of different training level. The ITM/VE relationship was most poorly predicted in stage-3 TTTS (χ2, p = 0.016). CONCLUSION: In TTTS, preoperative ultrasound identification of placental cord insertion sites, lie of the donor twin, and size discordance enables preoperative prediction of key landmarks for successful FLOC.