Media Release

Mangaluru, July 4: Father Muller Medical College Hospital has successfully treated a rare and high-risk fetal condition—non-immune hydrops fetalis (NIHF)—through an in-utero procedure, marking a significant milestone in advanced fetal therapy and high-risk obstetric care.

NIHF is a life-threatening condition marked by abnormal fluid accumulation in at least two fetal compartments, such as the skin (edema), pleural cavity, pericardial cavity, or abdominal cavity. Unlike immune hydrops, which is caused by red cell alloimmunization, NIHF can result from several causes including fetal anemia, infections, cardiac defects, or chromosomal abnormalities. It requires urgent diagnosis and timely intervention for fetal survival.

Left to right: Dr Praveen Nayak K, pediatrician and neonatologist; Dr Prathima Prabhu, OBGyn and high-risk pregnancy and fetal medicine specialist; Dr Muralidhar G K, senior consultant radiologist, fetal medicine and intervention; Dr Mandeep Sagar and Dr Lenon D'Souza, interventional radiologists.
Seated: Mother and child.

A 24-week pregnant woman was referred to the hospital’s high-risk pregnancy and fetal medicine unit with complaints of reduced fetal movements. An ultrasound revealed severe fetal anemia and hydrops, including scalp and abdominal wall edema.

Given the critical condition, a multidisciplinary team opted for an emergency intrauterine transfusion (IUT)—a complex but potentially life-saving intervention. The anterior position of the fetus and a posterior placenta ruled out the standard placental cord insertion route. Instead, the team performed the transfusion via the fetal portal vein under real-time ultrasound guidance. Fetal paralysis was also induced to ensure precision and safety during the procedure.

The medical team comprised Dr Prathima Prabhu (high-risk pregnancy and fetal medicine specialist), Dr Muralidhar G K (senior consultant, fetal medicine and intervention), and interventional radiologists Dr Lenon D’Souza and Dr Mandeep Sagar.

Following the transfusion, the mother received close antenatal care and went on to deliver a healthy baby vaginally at term. Postnatal care was overseen by Dr Praveen Nayak K, consultant pediatrician and neonatologist.

This successful case illustrates that fetal anemia-induced NIHF—once associated with high perinatal mortality—can be managed with precision and timely expert intervention.

Director of FMCI, Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo, said, “This exceptional achievement demonstrates the dedication and expertise of our clinical teams. It reflects our mission to bring cutting-edge care to those most in need.”

Fr George Jeevan Sequeira, administrator of FMMCH, remarked, “Our teams continue to push boundaries in maternal and fetal care. This case is a shining example of teamwork, precision, and compassion.”

Dr Antony Sylvan D’Souza, dean of FMMC, added, “Academic excellence, research, and patient-centered care are the pillars of our institution. This case exemplifies all three.”

Medical superintendent Dr Udaykumar said, “The coordinated efforts of our obstetrics, radiology, and neonatology departments made this possible. It’s a proud moment for the hospital.”