Wits hosts the first-ever Fetal Therapy Workshop in Africa
- FHS Communications
The Wits Department of Maternal and Fetal Medicine in partnership with the One Learning Academy hosted the first-ever Fetal Therapy Workshop in Africa.
Image: Workshop presenters and participants pictured with Dr Vivek Krishnan (centre)
Fetal intervention, the process of performing therapeutic procedures inside the uterus, has witnessed remarkable progress over the past few decades. With modern imaging techniques enabling early diagnosis of fetal abnormalities and twin complications, these abnormalities that could cause ongoing damage to the developing fetus if left uncorrected. This calls for in-utero intervention, which beneficial to both the mother and her fetus.
International speakers and private companies shared their insight on the latest innovation in fetal medicine and therapy. Dr Vivek Krishnan, Clinical Associate Professor and Head of Fetal Care at Amrita Hospital in Kochi, India, presented on fatal intervention using his hi-fidelity biostimulators invention. This innovation in partnership with One Simulation, underscored the rapid advancements in prenatal diagnostic and intervention techniques. Training on these methods was important pathway in keeping specialists abreast with these advancements – further upskilling themselves to international standards.
Participants engaged in lectures and simulation training, covering essential topics such as invasive testing, fetal blood transfusions, fetal shunt placement, fetoscopic lasertherapy for twins, laser photocoagulation, bipolar cord occlusion and radiofrequency ablation. Private companies Samsung, Karl Storz, Vertice and Markus joined in to present on medical imaging and visualisation technologies with some focusing on minimally invasive therapies.
This not only allowed attendees to deepen their understanding of fetal therapy but equipped them with practical skills. This initiative marks a pivotal moment that fosters a culture of collaborative and continuous learning amongst specialists. By empowering participants with the knowledge and tools necessary for fetal therapy, it is hoped that they will disseminate this critical information within their own practices and universities.