Adverse conditions during pregnancy, such as myelomeningocele (MMC), fetal-fetal transfusion syndrome (STFF) and congenital heart disease (CHD) not only significantly increase the risk of fetal death, but also increase the occurrence of severe postnatal sequelae.

We conducted a rapid review of the efficacy and safety of intrauterine interventions in MMC, STFF and DCC in comparison to traditional interventions. We searched Pubmed via Medline, Cochrane Library and Center for Reviews and Dissemination databases using the terms indexed and synonyms for each intervention.

For STFF, the available scientific evidence indicates that laser ablation is effective and presents better outcomes when compared to other interventions, such as high overall survival rate, better perinatal outcomes and less chance of brain injury. Even though intrauterine interventions in CHD present high rates of live births, high neonatal mortality rates are also reported. Evidence on the efficacy and safety of intrauterine surgical interventions for myelomeningocele and CHD is inconclusive. Regarding myelomeningocele, no significant differences were observed for the outcomes of postnatal mortality, rate of ventriculostomy placement, reversal of posterior brain herniation, motor response and placental rupture.

There is no consensus regarding the efficacy and safety of intrauterine surgical interventions for myelomeningocele and CHD. Regarding STFF, laser ablation is accepted as an effective intervention. It is necessary to conduct prospective studies in order to evaluate the effect of these interventions, considering the specifications of each condition and the ethical aspects.