What is FETO?
Under normal circumstances the lungs produce fluid that can escape through the windpipe (trachea). Occlusion of the trachea prevents escape of this fluid and increases the pressure in the trachea. This increase can stimulate growth of the lungs. After extensive research over the past decade it has been shown that fetal tracheal occlusion improves the lung development in congenital diaphragmatic hernia. In subsequent years fetoscopy has been refined to provide minimally invasive access into the uterus. A technique has thus been developed where a small balloon is inserted into the trachea of the fetus. This procedure is called fetoscopic tracheal occlusion or FETO. This treatment is typically performed between 26-29 weeks gestation. A second procedure after 32 weeks is required to remove the balloon. After successful completion of these procedures the baby can deliver vaginally.
