Edward S. Ahn, M.D., neurosurgeon, and Rodrigo Ruano, M.D. Ph.D., maternal and fetal medicine surgeon, describe surgery prior to birth to repair severe congenital anomalies.

Surgery can often be offered for severe congenital anomalies in order to treat babies prior to birth. Congenital anomalies are typically diagnosed around 20 weeks during the recommended fetal anatomy scan. Once diagnosed, a multidisciplinary center can offer the best treatment options with various specialists coming together using the latest in technology and techniques. Early intervention is extremely important, and involving a specialized team sooner helps the teams plan and prepare for treatment options.

Mayo Clinic specializes in minimally invasive approaches that improve overall outcomes. Using a multidisciplinary approach, experts for both the mother and the child come together. This includes experts in maternal and fetal medicine, obstetricians, cardiologists, neurologists, and others.