The role of the surgeon in the case of a giant neck mass in the EXIT procedure

J Pediatr Surg. 2005 Apr;40(4):748-50. doi: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2005.01.035.

Abstract

Large fetal neck masses can present a major challenge to securing an airway at birth, with associated risks of hypoxia, brain injury, and death. The authors report a case of a giant neck mass, diagnosed in a fetus of 28 weeks, treated through ex utero intrapartum treatment procedure to assist in securing an airway followed by excision of the mass on the day after delivery. A multidisciplinary team approach, combined with an accurate prenatal diagnosis obtained through fetal ultrasound magnetic resonance imaging examination, was the key to a successful outcome. The role of the pediatric surgeon was initially to secure the airways through a tracheostomy followed by excision of the mass when the infant's vital parameters had been stabilized.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Airway Obstruction / etiology
  • Cesarean Section
  • Fetus / surgery*
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Intubation, Intratracheal
  • Lymphangioma, Cystic / diagnosis
  • Lymphangioma, Cystic / surgery*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Patient Care Team
  • Physician's Role
  • Teratoma / diagnosis
  • Teratoma / surgery*
  • Tracheostomy / methods*
  • Ultrasonography, Prenatal