Fetoscopy
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Fetoscopy is done during pregnancy to allow a doctor to see the fetus through a thin, flexible instrument called a fetoscope 
. The fetoscope is inserted into the uterus through a small cut (incision) made in the belly. Fetal ultrasound is used to guide the placement of the fetoscope to protect the fetus. A camera can be attached to the fetoscope to take pictures.
Fetoscopy is usually done during or after the 18th week of a pregnancy. At this time, the structures of the placenta and the fetus are developed enough to be able to diagnose a serious problem.
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| Last updated: | June 28, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS |
| Reviewed By: | Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine, Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer |
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