Women who are expecting more than one baby are at an increased risk of certain complications and will typically be monitored more closely.
At Cincinnati Children’s, we are able to help with the diagnosis of potential complications that can affect babies before they are born. We are fortunate to work in conjunction with the Cincinnati Fetal Center in collaboration with University of Cincinnati Medical Center and Good Samaritan Hospital. This cooperative work brings together a network of physicians, nurses and technologists who specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of fetal conditions, including specific complications affecting multiple pregnancies.
In the Department of Radiology, we perform ultrasound as well as fetal MRI on expectant moms. Fetal MRI allows radiologists to assess the anatomy of the babies, the placenta, and the area where the umbilical cords are connected to the placenta. This information is complemented with our ultrasound evaluation of the blood flow and amount of fluid around each baby and their growth. Thanks to this complete assessment, we are able to provide the fetal surgeons and Materno-Fetal Medicine specialists with the most accurate information that will guide the counseling and the selection of the best treatment options for our patients. In some cases surgery may be required, but for all of cases, our main goal is to take care of pregnant mothers and save the lives of their unborn babies.
Contributed by Dr. Maria A. Calvo-Garcia and edited by Tim O’Connor.
