Intrauterine Blood Transfusion for Haemolytic Disease of Foetus: Current Indications, Intrauterine Transfusion Methods, Complications and Outcome

Abstract

Foetal anaemia remains a serious complication in pregnancy which can lead to hydrops and perinatal death. It is important to detect it timely in order to prevent formation of hydrops and improve the long term outcome. Foetal anaemia can be successfully treated by Intrauterine Transfusion (IUT), if it occurs due to red cell alloimmunisation. Management involves a multidisciplinary approach involving foetal medicine specialist, transfusion medicine specialist, obstetrics and gynaecology specialist and paediatrician. This review article focuses on current IUT indications, methods, complications and outcome.

Keywords

• alloimmunisation
• blood modification
• foetal anaemia
• foetal therapy
• middle cerebral artery
• peak systolic velocity