Translational Research and Innovation in the Field of Fetal Surgery
Although the field of prenatal diagnosis and fetal therapy continues to grow, the risk of complications with many prenatal interventions are high. Preterm birth or preterm prelabor rupture of membranes (PPROM) are two major complications of fetal surgery, and the Forde lab is pioneering new, innovative treatments to attempt to minimize these complications as well as gaining a deeper understanding of the “why” behind the complications of current fetal therapies and pregnancies.
From a translational perspective, the lab focuses on the interactive functions of the placenta and amniotic sac in the setting of fetal therapy. To achieve this goal, the lab studies the amniotic sac on the cellular level with human tissue as well as studies new fetal therapies in animal models. The lab is also focused both on clinical data and patient outcomes to guide future management of high-risk pregnancies.
