Antenatal counselling of congenital surgical anomalies: A decade of experience in a local tertiary centre

Abstract

Aim: This study reviewed the experience of a tertiary paediatric surgery and obstetric centre on prenatal counselling of congenital surgical anomalies and to explore the role of paediatric surgeons on perinatal outcomes of antenatally detected anomalies.

Methods: A retrospective analysis of all antenatal consultations and subsequent medical records after birth were performed between 2009 and 2018. Data including timing of consultations, gestations at birth, birthweight, impact on obstetrics management, neonatal mortality and need of surgery were included.

Results: A total of 256 fetuses were diagnosed to have congenital surgical anomalies on antenatal ultrasound. The most common were urogenital (31%) and thoracic (30%) anomalies. Twelve of the 256 (4.7%) had multiple anomalies. The mean gestation at referral was 23 ± 5 weeks. The majority (85.4%) were born at term. Mode and timing of delivery was altered in 7% of patients. Four received fetal intervention after surgical consultation. Termination of pregnancy rate was 5.4% (n = 14). Neonatal death was reported in 7.8% of the cohort.

Conclusion: Congenital surgical anomalies had a significant impact on perinatal outcome as well as morbidity in later infancy and childhood. A multidisciplinary approach in managing pregnancy with these anomalies should be implemented. Combined-specialty consultations and counselling deliver valuable information for parents.