The physiological effects of amniotic insufflation

Surgeons can operate on babies with congenital abnormalities mid-way through pregnancy to minimise the consequences they inevitably face after birth. These procedures are often performed via keyhole surgery using a camera inserted into the mothers uterus. To see clearly with the camera and create enough space for surgery, surgeons drain the liquid surrounding the baby and distended the uterus with pressurised carbon dioxide gas. This thesis investigates how uterine distension with carbon dioxide effects the mother and baby during surgery.