From the Research
Intrauterine transfusion is a safe and effective procedure for managing fetal anemia due to red blood cell alloimmunization, with a survival rate of over 80% 1.
Fetal Medicine Research
Dr. Anthony Vintzileos has made significant contributions to fetal medicine research, focusing on fetal monitoring, prenatal diagnosis, and maternal-fetal outcomes. His work includes research on electronic fetal heart rate monitoring, biophysical profile scoring, and ultrasound applications in high-risk pregnancies.
- Vintzileos has published extensively on the use of Doppler velocimetry to assess fetal well-being and detect complications such as intrauterine growth restriction.
- He has also conducted important studies on prenatal diagnosis of congenital anomalies, particularly neural tube defects and cardiac abnormalities.
- His research has helped establish protocols for managing pregnancies complicated by conditions like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and preterm labor.
Intrauterine Transfusion
Intrauterine transfusion is a well-established treatment for fetal anemia, with a high survival rate and low complication rate 2, 1.
- The procedure involves transfusing blood into the fetus to treat anemia caused by red blood cell alloimmunization.
- The survival rate after transfusion is over 80%, with a low complication rate of around 12.7% 1.
- Intrauterine transfusion is also used to treat other causes of fetal anemia, such as Kell alloimmunization and parvovirus B19 infection 3.
Prenatal Care
Prenatal care is essential for identifying and managing complications during pregnancy, including fetal anemia.
- Early prenatal care, initiated at 10 weeks or earlier, can improve outcomes and reduce the risk of pregnancy-associated morbidity and mortality 4.
- Screening for asymptomatic bacteriuria, sexually transmitted infections, and immunity against rubella and varicella is recommended for all pregnant patients 4.
- Folic acid supplementation and screening for gestational diabetes are also important components of prenatal care 4.