A well-orchestrated EXIT strategy: A case of a successful ex utero intrapartum treatment procedure for cystic hygroma

Abstract

A fetal neck mass such as cystic hygroma imposes a challenge in the continuing prenatal care and birth strategy for a 26-year-old gravida 2 para 1 (1001) with a scarred uterus from previous low transverse cesarean section (CS). An intricate delivery for the fetus with a potential airway obstruction necessitates an ex utero intrapartum treatment (EXIT) delivery. The patient was initially scheduled to undergo the procedure at 38 weeks of gestation, but preterm labor ensued. Close antenatal monitoring was done which carried the pregnancy to term. The multidisciplinary approach and planning requires consensus among varied specialties as this maternal–fetal surgery differs immensely from a regular CS. This aims to document and discuss the preoperative, operative and postoperative management done for this patient. The EXIT procedure was performed at 38 weeks' age of gestation with good maternal outcomes. The fetus was delivered safely.