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vesicoamniotic shunt
Drainage device placed between fetal bladder and amniotic cavity to treat severe oligohydramnios from urinary tract anomalies.
Full Definition
A specialized double-pigtail catheter surgically placed to create communication between the fetal bladder and amniotic cavity in cases of severe fetal urological abnormalities. The shunt allows drainage of fetal urine into the amniotic space, preventing or treating oligohydramnios that could lead to pulmonary hypoplasia. Placement is typically performed percutaneously under ultrasound guidance between 18-24 weeks of gestation.
In Context
- "Placement of a vesicoamniotic shunt restored normal amniotic fluid levels in the fetus with posterior urethral valves." — Fetal intervention report
- "The vesicoamniotic shunt remained patent throughout the remainder of pregnancy." — Follow-up ultrasound report
Also known as
bladder shunt
urinary diversion shunt
Don't confuse with
thoracoamniotic shunt
ventriculoamniotic shunt