Fetal Diagnosis and Interventions

In recent years, extraordinary progress has been realized in the field of fetal medicine and maternal–fetal intervention. In this special edition of American Journal of Perinatology, the new paradigm of multidisciplinary fetal-to-neonatal management is described with special attention to the crucial role of the neonatologist in the complex fetal care team. The history of fetal therapy is reviewed, and a multitier definition of a fetal center is proposed. The complexity of patient counseling and the ethics of maternal–fetal intervention are addressed. New advances in fetal imaging and noninvasive prenatal genetic testing are described. The reader is given a glimpse into the development of fetal interventions for twin–twin transfusion, myelomeningocele, and diaphragmatic hernia, and articles summarize the current and advancing state of these specific therapies. Leading edge diagnostic and treatment approaches for fetal arrhythmias and maternal–fetal intervention for structural cardiac disease are discussed.

When we envisioned this special edition, we chose topics germane to the current and evolving state of the field of fetal medicine and complex maternal–fetal care. Well-known and authoritative investigators and thought leaders were invited to contribute, and have shared a wealth of experience, expertise, and vision for the future. We hope this issue can both inform and energize all those from the many disciplines that care for expectant mothers, complex fetal patients, and high-risk infants, galvanizing further advances.