BILATERAL FETAL CHYLOTHORAX - RESULT OF UNILATERAL IN-UTERO THERAPY

The optimal method for antenatal treatment of pleural effusions from c ongenital chylothorax is unknown. A fetus with bilateral congenital ch ylothorax and hydrops had a pleural catheter placed in utero on only o ne side of the fetal chest for 14 days prior to delivery. The fetal hy drops partially resolved. After birth there was significantly less dra inage from the pleural space that had been antenatally drained. This c ase demonstrates potential neonatal advantages of pleuro-amniotic shun t placement.