Fetoscopic Observation of Intrauterine Operative Port Placements during Laparotomy-Assisted Fetal Myelomeningocele Closure.

INTRODUCTION

Amniotic membrane disruption during laparotomy-assisted fetoscopic myelomeningocele closure port insertion is a precursor to iatrogenic preterm prelabor rupture of membranes (iPPROM), the primary contributor to obstetric complications. We hypothesized that visualization of port insertion from the intrauterine perspective could offer insight into mechanisms affecting chorioamniotic integrity.

METHODS

Fetoscopically video-recorded uterine port insertions during myelomeningocele closure were independently reviewed by six observers for suture placement, associated chorioamniotic separation of the membrane (referred to as tenting), and bleeding at port insertion. Findings were analyzed for interobserver agreement and related to iPPROM and gestational age at delivery.

RESULTS

In 23 surgical videos, average interobserver agreement was 78% for membrane tenting, myometrial bleeding, visible debris on the port, and the number of suture placements as distinct mechanical factors. Tenting occurred at 30.4% of suture and 30.4% of trocar insertions. Port step occurred in 100.0% of insertions, and port debris occurred in 60.9% of insertions. Bleeding occurred in 8.7% of port, and 21.7% of suture insertions. Amniotic membrane plication used 2 stitches in 65.2% of cases. iPPROM occurred in 47.8% of cases. The average gestational age at the time of surgery was 24 weeks and 4 days and, at the time of delivery, was 35 weeks and 3 days.

CONCLUSIONS

Fetoscopic port insertions produce identifiable chorioamniotic disruption without any specific precursors to membrane rupture. The number, rather than the type of membrane punctures, may be more relevant for iPPROM risk.