Amnioscopic surgery is a medical procedure where a tiny telescope is used to visualize the amniotic fluid, placenta, and umbilical cord inside the uterus. The spelling of amnioscopic consists of four syllables and is pronounced /æmniəˈskɑpɪk/ in IPA (short a, long i, stress on the third syllable). The word derives from amniotic, which refers to the fluid-filled sac that surrounds and protects the fetus during pregnancy, and the suffix "-scopic", meaning "relating to seeing or observing through a scope or instrument."
Amnioscopic surgery is a medical procedure that involves the use of an amnioscope to access and perform surgical intervention within the amniotic sac during pregnancy. The amnioscope is a specialized device equipped with a camera and light source, which is inserted into the uterus through a small incision on the abdomen. This allows the surgeon to visualize the fetus and the surrounding structures within the amniotic sac.
Amnioscopic surgery is typically performed to diagnose and treat certain conditions or abnormalities in the fetus. It enables the surgeon to directly access and manipulate the fetus, thereby facilitating interventions such as fetal repositioning, cord decompression, or in utero surgery. This procedure may be recommended when ultrasound imaging or other non-invasive methods are insufficient for diagnosis or treatment.
The surgeon performs amnioscopic surgery under close monitoring and guidance, often with the assistance of real-time ultrasound imaging. After the procedure, the incision is closed, and the pregnancy is closely monitored to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the fetus.
Amnioscopic surgery is considered a complex and specialized intervention that requires a skilled surgical team and careful consideration of the risks and benefits. While it can provide essential diagnostic and therapeutic options, it also carries potential risks, such as infection, uterine rupture, or preterm labor. Therefore, the decision to perform amnioscopic surgery is typically based on a thorough assessment of the individual situation and circumstances, weighing the potential benefits against the associated risks.