Researchers from Boston Children's Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital at Harvard Medical School
Researchers performed intrauterine embolizationfetus with malformation of the vein of Galen at 34 weeks and 2 days. They used ultrasound-guided transuterine embolization for treatment. Further observation showed that the operation was successful and the baby feels well after delivery. Symptoms of the disease, which usually appear after birth, have not been established.
The newborn did not require cardiovascularsupport or surgery after intrauterine treatment and was monitored in the neonatal intensive care unit for several weeks. During this time, the infant showed no neurological abnormalities, and MRI of the brain showed no signs of strokes, fluid accumulation, or hemorrhages.
We are happy to announce that at six weeks old babyfeels great, does not take any medication, eats normally, gains weight and returned home. There are no signs of any negative effects on the brain.
Darren B. Orbach, MD, co-director of the Center for Cerebrovascular Surgery and Interventions, Boston Children's Hospital and Associate Professor of Radiology, Harvard Medical School
Malformation of the vein of Galen is a rarea prenatal condition in which arteries carrying high-flow, high-pressure blood to the brain from the heart connect directly, rather than through capillaries, to one of the main collecting veins deep at the base of the brain. Due to changes in the infant's vascular physiology during and after birth, high blood flow has a major impact on the heart and brain. This can lead to pulmonary hypertension, heart failure, and other life-threatening conditions.
The current operation is the first in a series of clinicaltests performed by physicians. They will continue to work to evaluate safety and efficacy in other patients. If successful, this approach will open the possibility of preventing the development of a dangerous pathology before birth, rather than trying to reverse it after birth, as is currently done.
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On the cover: Ultrasound of a healthy child. Image: American Heart Association