Alexander Engels, 03/2015 – 05/2015

In a surgical model for spina bifida (see Luc Joyeux) we are trying to prevent iatrogenic leakage of amniotic fluid by improving the surgical suturing of the fetal membranes and the uterus.

Surgical model:

Fetal lambs

Spina Bifida creation: d75 of gestation

Caesarean section: d100

 

3 different groups for uterine closure:

-Staplers (as used in clinical open fetal surgery currently)

-Hysterotomy with running suture to prevent fetal membrane detachment

-Mini-Hysterotomy with small sized incision

 

Currently operated:

6 animals with Stapler

3 animals with Hysterotomy and running suture

 

Planned read outs:

-Macroscopic evaluation

-Deepest vertical pocket of amniotic fluid at d100 as measured by ultrasound

-Histologic evaluation of uterus and fetal membranes