A Review of EXIT: Interventions for Neonatal Airway Rescue

AbstractPurpose of ReviewThis review aims to examine the evidence and trends of ex utero intrapartum therapy (EXIT) and its various treatment modalities, with a focus on foetal survival outcomes.Recent FindingsA review of the literature (2017 –2022) revealed 126 reported cases. EXIT for the management of congenital diaphragmatic hernias is now infrequently performed due to alternative foetoscopic techniques. Airway management remains the main indication for EXIT. Overall mortality was 24% whilst the EXIT interventions themselves had lo w immediate ‘procedure-specific’ mortality (4%). This suggests that subsequent mortality is related to other perinatal factors. Recent developments also include use of 3D modelling for simulation and MDT training before embarking on the procedure.SummaryEXIT is a controlled intervention for complex foetal airway pathology which has good outcomes with minimal morbidity. In the future, EXIT may continue to broaden its indications; therefore, more evidence and structured guidance should be adopted for reporting of intervention outcomes.
Source: Current Otorhinolaryngology Reports - Category: ENT & OMF Source Type: research