Intrapartum endotracheal intubation in fetuses with airway obstruction. Two first cases of EXIT surgery at the Rebagliati Hospital - EsSalud

Abstract

Two cases of pregnant women in the third trimester of gestation referred for
management of fetal cervical tumor with airway obstruction are presented. The
cases were scheduled for EXIT (ex-utero intrapartum treatment), fetal surgery
which allowed controlled intrapartum orotracheal intubation avoiding the period
of hypoxia and potential asphyxia that would occur with the conventional neonatal
procedure. The neonates were subsequently operated on by head and neck surgeons
for reduction of the cervical mass. It is suggested to consider this procedure in cases
where severe airway obstruction is suspected and to refer them to centers that have
a fetal surgery unit with a multidisciplinary medical team.