Can you be a fetal surgeon?

Throughout the history of medicine, there have been several medical innovations, including fetal surgery. Fetal surgeons have now attained the ability to perform complex procedures that treat birth defects such as amniotic band syndrome, fetal anaemia, and masses using only fetoscopy and sonography.

How long does it take to become a maternal fetal surgeon?

Maternal–fetal medicine specialists are physicians who subspecialize within the field of obstetrics. Their training typically includes a four-year residency in obstetrics and gynecology followed by a three-year fellowship. They may perform prenatal tests, provide treatments, and perform surgeries.

What type of doctor does fetal surgery?

Fetal surgeons are often pediatric surgeons or a perinatologist/maternal-fetal medicine specialist. Genetic counselors are essential to the team and family education. Pediatric radiologists and neonatologists also are key members of the interdisciplinary team.

Does MFM do surgery?

Some procedures are performed endoscopically, through tiny incisions using cameras, such as for twin pregnancy or other fetal anomalies. In other conditions, the MFM opens the uterus to perform fetal surgery for birth defects such as spina bifida.

Why am I being referred to a maternal-fetal specialist?

You may be referred to a maternal-fetal medicine specialist if you have a pre-existing medical condition prior to pregnancy, develop a medical condition during pregnancy or have problems during delivery. Additionally, you will see a maternal-fetal medicine specialist during pregnancy if your baby has an anomaly.

How many fetal surgeons are there in the US?

There are 1,355 MFM specialists in the United States with the highest number being in the most populace states [California (161), New York (123), Texas (85), Pennsylvania (70), New Jersey (64), and Florida (60)].

What does a maternal-fetal medicine specialist do?

The role of a maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) specialist. A maternal-fetal medicine specialist is a doctor who helps take care of women having complicated or high-risk pregnancies.

What is the role of an MFM doctor during pregnancy?

An MFM doctor: Gives regular prenatal care for women with high-risk pregnancies. Helps manage the mother’s existing health problems, such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Cares for women who develop complications during pregnancy or childbirth. Does tests and procedures, such as ultrasound, to check your babies’ growth and development.

Who can refer me to an MFM specialist?

Your OB, family doctor, or midwife can refer you to a few MFM specialists. This list of questions can help you find the MFM specialist who’s right for you:

What does a perinatologist do?

A perinatologist, or commonly known as a maternal-fetal medicine specialist, is an obstetrician who specializes in prenatal care of women who are at high risk of having a complicated pregnancy.