INHS Asvini achieved another milestone by successfully performing an Intra Uterine Transfusion (IUT) for the first time. The procedure was performed on a 27-weeks foetus having severe immune hydrops foetalis due to Rh Isoimmunisation.
The foetus has been showing signs of improvement after the procedure and is doing well. The procedure is the beginning of a new discipline of Feto-Maternal medicine in the Indian Navy.
Hydrops foetalis occurs when an Rh-negative mother's antibodies attack and destroy the blood cells of her Rh positive foetus causing severe anaemia and cardiac failure eventually leading to demise of the foetus.
Blood transfusion to such affected foetuses, while still within the uterus is a technically demanding but lifesaving procedure and the only hope of life.
