ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION First-trimester embryofetoscopy is a technique that allows visualization and access to the developing embryo/fetus and its environment. e procedure can be performed by the introduction of an endoscope into the extracelomic space transcervically or transabdominally. e procedure uses a high-resolution ber-optic equipment attached to a camera for direct visualization of the embryo/fetus. e need for rst-trimester embryofetoscopy has been created by the recent technological advances of ultrasound for rsttrimester prenatal diagnosis. Improved high-resolution of transvaginal ultrasound has made possible the morphologic evaluation of a developing embryo/fetus. Certain fetal anomalies cannot be diagnosed with certainty by using ultrasound alone. erefore, the direct visualization of the fetus may be necessary to conrm some ultrasonically diagnosed fetal anomalies in the rst trimester of pregnancy, and also to help in the management in selected families aected by recurrent genetic syndromes with recognizable external fetal abnormalities. An additional reason for introducing rst-trimester embryofetoscopy is its potential for early in utero therapy, opening the way for a new era of early pregnancy intervention.
