When a serious fetal diagnosis is made during pregnancy, access to an experienced fetal surgeon can make a life-changing difference. In Chicago and the greater Illinois region, Dr. Suwan Mehra, MD, provides advanced fetal surgery services designed to improve outcomes for both mother and baby.
What Is Fetal Surgery?
Fetal surgery is a specialized medical field focused on treating certain conditions before birth. These procedures are performed while the baby remains in the womb, allowing physicians to intervene early and potentially prevent worsening complications.
Conditions commonly treated with fetal surgery may include:
- Spina bifida (myelomeningocele)
- Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome
- Severe congenital anomalies
- Certain fetal tumors
- Fetal blood disorders
Why Consider Surgery Before Birth?
Some fetal conditions can progress during pregnancy. Early intervention may:
- Prevent irreversible damage
- Improve neurologic or organ development
- Reduce complications after delivery
- Improve survival rates
Dr. Mehra carefully evaluates each case to determine whether prenatal intervention offers measurable benefit.
What Makes Dr. Mehra a Leader in Fetal Surgery in Chicago?
Dr. Mehra combines:
- Board certification in Maternal Fetal Medicine, OB/GYN, and Family Medicine
- Fellowship training in Maternal Fetal Medicine
- Advanced mentorship in fetal therapy
- Publication and presentation at ACOG, SMFM, ISUOG
- 20+ years of high-risk pregnancy management
He is one of the few Maternal Fetal Medicine surgeons in the region qualified to manage:
- Diagnosis
- Surgical intervention
- Ongoing maternal care
- Postpartum coordination
Families benefit from having one physician oversee every stage of care.
What to Expect During a Fetal Surgery Consultation
During your consultation, Dr. Mehra will:
- Review imaging and diagnostic results
- Discuss surgical and non-surgical options
- Explain maternal risks and recovery
- Coordinate multidisciplinary care
- Provide compassionate, direct access support
Education and clarity are central to every visit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fetal Surgery
Is fetal surgery safe?
While fetal surgery carries risks, it is performed by highly specialized teams and may significantly improve outcomes for specific conditions.
Will I need a C-section after fetal surgery?
In many cases, cesarean delivery is required following open fetal surgery.
How do I know if I’m a candidate?
A detailed maternal and fetal evaluation is necessary to determine eligibility.
If you are searching for expert fetal surgery in Chicago, IL, schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Suwan Mehra today.