Kapiolani Fetal Diagnostic Center: Comprehensive Prenatal Diagnosis For Expectant Parents

Kapiolani Fetal Diagnostic Center offers a comprehensive range of prenatal diagnosis services to expectant parents. From amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling to advanced techniques like fetal MRI and non-invasive prenatal testing, the center provides expert care and support in detecting fetal abnormalities and guiding family planning. With a focus on high-risk pregnancies, integrated prenatal screening, and genetic counseling, Kapiolani prioritizes the health and well-being of both mother and baby.

Introduction

• Welcome: Introduce Kapiolani Fetal Diagnostic Center and its mission.

Welcome to Kapiolani Fetal Diagnostic Center

In the realm of expectant journeys, where the miracle of life unfolds, we welcome you to Kapiolani Fetal Diagnostic Center. Our mission is to empower you, our expectant parents, with the knowledge and support you need to navigate this extraordinary chapter with confidence.

Kapiolani Fetal Diagnostic Center stands as a beacon of excellence, guiding you through the tapestry of prenatal care. Our team of renowned experts, cutting-edge technology, and compassionate approach will ensure that your pregnancy is not simply a medical journey but an empowering and memorable experience.

Our guiding principle is to provide comprehensive prenatal diagnosis services that leave no stone unturned in safeguarding the health of your precious unborn child. We believe that every expectant parent deserves access to the most advanced advancements in prenatal care, so we offer a wide range of diagnostic tools and screenings, tailored to your unique needs.

Prenatal Diagnosis: A Comprehensive Approach to Ensuring Maternal and Fetal Well-being

At Kapiolani Fetal Diagnostic Center, we understand the immense responsibility and joy that comes with expecting a child. That’s why we offer a comprehensive range of prenatal diagnosis services to empower you with the knowledge and support you need throughout your pregnancy journey.

Our team of highly skilled specialists utilizes advanced technologies and a holistic approach to detect, diagnose, and manage fetal abnormalities. We believe in empowering expectant parents with accurate information and compassionate care, guiding you every step of the way.

Our services include:

• Amniocentesis: A procedure that analyzes fetal cells from the amniotic fluid to detect genetic and chromosomal abnormalities.
• Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS): A technique that examines placental tissue to identify fetal defects early in pregnancy.
• Fetal Echocardiogram: An ultrasound examination of the fetal heart to assess its structure and function, detecting heart defects.
• Fetal MRI: An imaging technique that provides detailed views of the fetus, helping diagnose fetal abnormalities and birth defects.
• Genetic Counseling: Professional guidance to assist families in understanding genetic factors and planning for healthy pregnancies.
• Integrated Prenatal Screening: A combination of tests that helps detect Down syndrome and neural tube defects early on.
• Maternal-Fetal Medicine: Specialized care for high-risk pregnancies, addressing conditions such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes.
• Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT): A blood test that screens for genetic abnormalities in the fetus, including Down syndrome and Trisomy 18.
• Percutaneous Umbilical Blood Sampling (PUBS): A procedure that analyzes fetal blood samples to assess fetal well-being and diagnose certain conditions.
• Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD): A technique used in assisted reproductive technology to identify genetic abnormalities in embryos before implantation.

We understand that receiving a prenatal diagnosis can be an emotionally charged experience. Our compassionate team provides support and guidance throughout the process, empowering you with the knowledge and tools you need to make informed decisions about your pregnancy and your child’s future.

Amniocentesis: A Window into Your Baby’s Well-being

Introduction
As expectant parents, the health of your unborn child is paramount. Amniocentesis, a prenatal test offered by Kapiolani Fetal Diagnostic Center, provides invaluable insights into your baby’s well-being.

What is Amniocentesis?

Amniocentesis is a minimally invasive procedure that involves extracting a small amount of amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus. This fluid contains essential information about the baby’s genetic makeup and potential health conditions.

Procedure:
The procedure typically takes place in a doctor’s office or clinic. The doctor uses ultrasound to guide a thin needle through the mother’s abdomen and into the amniotic sac. A small amount of amniotic fluid is then collected for analysis.

Purpose: Detecting Fetal Abnormalities

Amniocentesis is primarily used to detect chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome and Trisomy 18. It can also screen for genetic disorders like cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, and Tay-Sachs disease, among others.

Advantages of Amniocentesis

Accurate Results: Amniocentesis provides highly accurate results, making it the gold standard for detecting chromosomal abnormalities.

Peace of Mind: Knowing about potential health conditions can provide peace of mind to expectant parents and allow them to make informed decisions about their pregnancy.

Important Considerations

Risks: Amniocentesis is a safe procedure, but like any medical procedure, it carries some risks. These include a small risk of miscarriage, infection, or bleeding.

Timing: The optimal time to perform amniocentesis is typically between 15 and 20 weeks of pregnancy.

Amniocentesis is a valuable prenatal test that can provide essential information about your baby’s health. By offering accurate and comprehensive results, it empowers expectant parents to make informed decisions about their pregnancy and the well-being of their little one.

Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS): A Diagnostic Tool for Prenatal Health

Chorionic villus sampling, abbreviated as CVS, is a prenatal diagnostic procedure performed during early pregnancy to evaluate the health of a developing fetus. This minimally invasive technique offers valuable insights into the genetic makeup and potential abnormalities of the growing baby.

How CVS Works:

CVS involves the collection of chorionic villi, which are small, finger-like projections that form the outer layer of the placenta. These projections contain cells that have the same genetic material as the fetus. To obtain chorionic villi, a thin, flexible tube is guided through the cervix and into the uterus under ultrasound guidance. Once the tube reaches the placenta, a small sample of the villi is collected using a gentle suction technique.

When CVS Is Recommended:

CVS is typically recommended when there are high-risk factors for fetal abnormalities, such as:

• Advanced maternal age (over 35)
• Previous pregnancies with chromosomal abnormalities
• Family history of genetic disorders
• Abnormal results on prenatal screening tests

Advantages of CVS:

Compared to amniocentesis, another common prenatal diagnostic procedure, CVS offers several advantages:

• Earlier availability of results: CVS can be performed as early as 10-13 weeks of gestation, allowing for earlier intervention if needed.
• Lower risk of miscarriage: CVS has a slightly lower risk of causing miscarriage than amniocentesis.
• Ability to detect both chromosomal and genetic disorders: CVS can diagnose both chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, and genetic disorders, such as cystic fibrosis.

Considerations Before CVS:

Before undergoing CVS, it is essential to discuss the potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider. These risks may include:

• Vaginal bleeding or cramping
• Uterine infection
• Fetal injury
• Incorrect results (rare)

Chorionic villus sampling is a valuable tool in prenatal diagnosis, providing important information about the health and well-being of a developing fetus. While it is not without risks, when performed by skilled healthcare professionals, CVS can significantly contribute to informed decision-making and early intervention, ultimately leading to improved outcomes for both mother and child.

Fetal Echocardiograms: Unlocking the Secrets of Baby’s Heart

During pregnancy, every expectant parent’s heart beats with anticipation and trepidation. Kapiolani Fetal Diagnostic Center understands this journey and is dedicated to empowering parents with comprehensive prenatal care. Among our services, fetal echocardiograms hold a crucial place in ensuring the well-being of your little one’s heart.

What is a Fetal Echocardiogram?

A fetal echocardiogram is a specialized ultrasound exam that allows us to visualize your baby’s heart in real-time. By carefully scanning the heart and its structures, we can detect even the most subtle abnormalities that may not be apparent through routine prenatal care.

Why are Fetal Echocardiograms Important?

Congenital heart defects are among the most common birth defects, affecting approximately 1 in 100 newborns. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve outcomes for babies with these conditions. Fetal echocardiograms play a vital role in:

• Identifying heart defects: We can detect a wide range of congenital heart defects, including:

  • Atrial septal defects (holes between the heart’s upper chambers)
  • Ventricular septal defects (holes between the heart’s lower chambers)
  • Tetralogy of Fallot (a combination of four heart defects)

• Assessing heart function: We evaluate how well your baby’s heart is pumping blood to its body. This information is crucial for managing high-risk pregnancies with conditions such as gestational diabetes or multiple gestations.

How is a Fetal Echocardiogram Performed?

The procedure is non-invasive and painless. We use a special ultrasound transducer to gently scan your abdomen, capturing images of your baby’s heart. The exam typically takes about 30-45 minutes and is performed by a highly skilled and experienced sonographer.

Fetal MRI

• Imaging for Abnormalities: Highlight the use of fetal MRI for diagnosing fetal abnormalities and birth defects.

Fetal MRI: Unlocking the Secrets of Your Unborn Child

If you’re an expectant parent, you’ve likely heard of prenatal ultrasound, but do you know about fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)? This advanced imaging technique allows doctors to gain a detailed view of your baby’s anatomy while still in the womb.

Fetal MRI is particularly valuable for diagnosing complex fetal abnormalities and birth defects that may not be visible on ultrasound. It can detect abnormalities in the brain, heart, spine, and other organs, providing crucial information for informed decision-making.

One of the most significant benefits of fetal MRI is its non-invasive nature. Unlike amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS), which involve inserting a needle into the uterus, fetal MRI relies on powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images. This means it’s a safe and comfortable procedure for both mom and baby.

How Does Fetal MRI Work?

During a fetal MRI, you’ll lie inside a large magnet-shaped machine. Your abdomen will be positioned near a radio frequency coil, which sends and receives radio waves. These waves interact with the hydrogen atoms in your baby’s body, producing signals that create high-resolution images.

The images provide detailed information about your baby’s anatomy, including:

• Brain structure: Detecting abnormalities such as neural tube defects, Dandy-Walker malformation, and brain cysts.
• Heart function: Assessing the structure and function of the heart, including congenital heart defects.
• Spine: Identifying spina bifida, kyphosis, and other spinal abnormalities.
• Other organs: Evaluating the development of the kidneys, liver, lungs, and gastrointestinal tract.

When Is Fetal MRI Performed?

Fetal MRI is typically performed between 20 and 24 weeks of pregnancy. It may be recommended if you have:

• High-risk factors for fetal abnormalities
• Abnormal results on ultrasound or other prenatal screening tests
• A family history of genetic disorders
• Concerns about fetal growth or development

What to Expect During a Fetal MRI

The procedure usually takes about 45 minutes. You’ll need to lie still inside the machine, so it’s a good idea to bring something to distract you, such as music or a book.

You may feel a warm sensation during the MRI, and you may be given a contrast agent to enhance the images. The contrast agent is safe for both you and your baby.

The Importance of Fetal MRI

Fetal MRI can provide invaluable information about your baby’s health and well-being. It can help you and your doctor make informed decisions about your pregnancy and the best course of treatment for your baby if needed. By understanding the abnormalities or birth defects present in advance, you can prepare for a smoother delivery and a healthier future for your child.

Genetic Counseling: Guiding Expectant Parents

At Kapiolani Fetal Diagnostic Center, genetic counselors play a crucial role in helping expectant parents navigate the complexities of prenatal care and family planning. Our highly trained counselors provide personalized guidance and support, empowering you to make informed decisions about your pregnancy.

Empowering Families

Genetic counselors are experts in genetics, the science of heredity and variation. They work closely with expectant parents to develop individualized care plans based on their family history, genetic testing results, and other factors. Our goal is to provide comprehensive information and support, helping you understand your options and make the best choices for your family.

Prenatal Care

During prenatal care, genetic counselors can help you interpret the results of prenatal screening tests, such as amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling. These tests can detect chromosomal abnormalities and other genetic conditions. Genetic counselors also provide guidance on prenatal diagnosis procedures, such as fetal echocardiograms and fetal MRI, to evaluate your baby’s health.

Family Planning

Genetic counselors also play a vital role in family planning. They can provide information about genetic risks and carrier screening for individuals who have a family history of certain genetic conditions. This knowledge can help you make informed decisions about your reproductive options, including the use of assisted reproductive technologies like preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD).

Support and Education

Throughout your pregnancy journey, our genetic counselors offer ongoing support and education. They are available to answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide emotional support. We understand the challenges and uncertainties of pregnancy, and our counselors are dedicated to providing you with the guidance and reassurance you need.

At Kapiolani Fetal Diagnostic Center, genetic counseling is an essential part of our commitment to providing comprehensive prenatal care. Our highly trained counselors are here to empower you with knowledge and support, helping you make informed decisions for your family’s health and well-being.

Integrated Prenatal Screening: Uncovering Risks for Down Syndrome and Neural Tube Defects

Expecting parents often worry about the health and well-being of their unborn child. Integrated prenatal screening offers a valuable tool to identify potential risks for Down syndrome and neural tube defects. This non-invasive screening combines several tests to provide a comprehensive assessment.

The first step in integrated prenatal screening involves a blood test that measures specific substances in the mother’s blood. These substances, produced by the placenta and the fetus, can indicate the presence of chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome. The blood test is typically done between the 11th and 13th weeks of pregnancy.

In addition to the blood test, integrated prenatal screening also includes an ultrasound examination, usually performed between the 18th and 20th weeks of pregnancy. The ultrasound provides detailed images of the fetus, allowing the doctor to assess its growth and development. By combining the results of the blood test and the ultrasound, doctors can calculate a risk score for Down syndrome and neural tube defects.

If the screening results indicate an increased risk, further testing may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis. These tests may include amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling, which involve collecting a sample of cells from the placenta or the fetus for genetic analysis.

Early detection of Down syndrome and neural tube defects is crucial for providing timely and appropriate medical care. It allows parents to make informed decisions about their pregnancy and to prepare for the possibility of having a child with special needs. Integrated prenatal screening plays a vital role in ensuring the health and well-being of both the mother and the unborn child.

Maternal-Fetal Medicine: Caring for High-Risk Pregnancies

Maternal-Fetal Medicine: A Lifeline for High-Risk Pregnancies

At Kapiolani Fetal Diagnostic Center, our team of expert maternal-fetal medicine specialists is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for expectant mothers facing high-risk pregnancies. We understand the unique challenges that come with these pregnancies and strive to provide personalized care to ensure the well-being of both mother and baby.

Our team of highly skilled physicians is specially trained to manage a wide range of high-risk conditions, including:

• Multiple gestations (twins, triplets, etc.)
• Preeclampsia and other hypertensive disorders
• Gestational diabetes
• Preterm labor
• Placental abruption
• Fetal growth restriction
• Birth defects

Comprehensive Care for Complex Pregnancies

Our goal is to provide the most advanced care possible for high-risk pregnancies. We utilize state-of-the-art technology and work closely with other specialists to ensure that mothers and babies receive the best possible care.

Our services include:

• Prenatal diagnosis: We offer a full range of diagnostic tests to identify potential fetal abnormalities.
• Fetal monitoring: We use advanced monitoring techniques to closely track the health of both mother and baby.
• Medication management: We prescribe medications to manage underlying medical conditions that may affect pregnancy.
• Delivery planning: We work with expectant mothers to develop a personalized delivery plan that ensures the safest possible outcome.

Supporting Mothers Every Step of the Way

We understand that carrying a high-risk pregnancy can be an emotionally challenging experience. Our team is here to provide support and guidance throughout your journey. We offer:

• Patient education to help mothers understand their condition.
• Nutritional counseling to ensure proper fetal development.
• Emotional support to help mothers cope with the stress of pregnancy.

Advanced Care for a Brighter Future

At Kapiolani Fetal Diagnostic Center, we are committed to providing the highest level of care for high-risk pregnancies. Our team of experts is dedicated to helping mothers and babies navigate the challenges associated with these pregnancies and achieve the best possible outcomes.

Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT): Advanced Detection for Fetal Abnormalities

NIPT is a revolutionary prenatal test that has transformed the landscape of pregnancy care. Unlocking the secrets of fetal development, NIPT empowers expectant parents with unparalleled insights into their baby’s well-being.

Unlike traditional prenatal diagnostic procedures, which require invasive measures such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling, NIPT is a non-invasive test. It analyzes cell-free fetal DNA that circulates in the mother’s bloodstream, providing a safe and accurate glimpse into the fetal genome.

NIPT’s advantages lie in its high accuracy in detecting common chromosomal abnormalities, including Down syndrome, trisomy 13, and trisomy 18. It can also screen for sex chromosome aneuploidies, such as Turner syndrome and Klinefelter syndrome.

By identifying these abnormalities at an early stage, NIPT enables expectant parents to make informed decisions about their pregnancy and prepare for the future. It empowers them with the knowledge they need to navigate the challenges and joys of parenthood.**

Percutaneous Umbilical Blood Sampling (PUBS): A Window into Fetal Health

PUBS, or percutaneous umbilical blood sampling, is a specialized procedure that offers a direct line into the world of your unborn child. It involves carefully withdrawing a small amount of blood from the umbilical cord, which connects baby to placenta.

When PUBS Takes Center Stage

PUBS is typically performed when other prenatal tests have suggested a potential issue with the baby’s health. _It can provide crucial information in situations such as:**

• Suspected fetal anemia (low red blood cell count)
• Blood clotting disorders
• Infections transmitted from mother to baby
• Suspected genetic abnormalities

A Glimpse into the Fetal World

Through PUBS, doctors can gain valuable insights into the baby’s overall health and well-being. The collected blood sample undergoes detailed analysis, including:

• Genetic testing: Identifying genetic disorders or chromosomal abnormalities
• Blood type determination: Matching baby’s blood type to mother’s for potential transfusion needs
• Blood count and platelet level assessment: Checking for anemia or clotting issues

Empowering Decisions, Shaping Outcomes

The information gleaned from PUBS empowers parents and healthcare providers to make informed decisions about the baby’s care. It can guide treatment plans, ensure timely interventions, and provide peace of mind amid prenatal uncertainties.

A Safe and Precise Technique

PUBS is conducted under strict medical supervision with meticulous attention to safety. Ultrasound guidance ensures precision, minimizing risks to both mother and baby. The procedure typically takes place in an outpatient setting, allowing for a comfortable and less invasive experience for the expectant mother.

Supporting a Healthy Pregnancy

Percutaneous umbilical blood sampling is a vital tool in the repertoire of prenatal diagnosis, providing access to fetal blood for comprehensive analysis. It empowers healthcare providers to make informed decisions, supporting a healthy and fulfilling pregnancy journey.

Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD): Empowering Family Planning Through Assisted Reproductive Technology

Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) is an advanced technique used in assisted reproductive technology (ART) that allows couples to identify and select genetically healthy embryos for implantation. This cutting-edge procedure is a game-changer for those seeking to minimize the risk of genetic disorders in their children.

PGD involves the genetic testing of embryos created through in vitro fertilization (IVF), a method where eggs are fertilized in a laboratory setting. Before the embryos are implanted into the uterus, a small sample of cells from each embryo is analyzed to determine its genetic makeup.

This analytical process allows for the identification of specific genetic mutations or chromosomal abnormalities that may cause inherited disorders. By selecting embryos that are free from these genetic defects, PGD provides couples with the opportunity to increase their chances of having a healthy pregnancy and a genetically sound child.

PGD is a valuable tool for couples who carry or are at risk of carrying genetic conditions. It can help them make informed choices about the embryos they implant, potentially reducing the likelihood of passing on devastating genetic disorders to their offspring.

Furthermore, PGD can be beneficial for couples who have experienced recurrent miscarriages or infertility due to genetic issues. By identifying genetically viable embryos, PGD can increase the chances of a successful pregnancy and the birth of a healthy baby.