Effect of Fetal Surgery on Maternal Mental Health [ID: 1376946]

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Perinatal mental illness imparts a significant health burden. A multitude of factors are hypothesized to increase the incidence of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) in the fetal surgical population, including uncertain fetal prognosis and the inherent risks of surgery and preterm delivery. We sought to determine the disease course of PMADs in the fetal surgery population. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was conducted of fetal surgery patients from 2017 to 2021 at a tertiary care center. Demographics, surgical, obstetric, and psychiatric diagnoses were recorded. Standard descriptive analyses were performed. RESULTS: One hundred nineteen eligible patients were identified. Fetal surgery was performed at a median gestational age of 23.0 (range 16.0–34.0) weeks. Laser ablation of placental anastomoses (n=51) and in utero myelomeningocele repair (n=22) were the most common procedures. 26.8% (32/119) had preexisting mood disorders, with 59.3% (19/32) and 53.1% (17/32) on a baseline medication for depression or anxiety, respectively, prior to surgery. 26.4% (23/87) of patients without a history of anxiety or depression had a new diagnosis of PMAD. Two patients experienced suicidal ideation. 6.7% (8/119) and 10.1% (12/119) initiated a new psychiatric medication during or post-pregnancy, respectively. 19.8% (21/113) received a therapy referral. Among patients with baseline anxiety or depression, 62.5% (20/32) experienced an exacerbation postpartum with 25.0% (8/32) referred for therapy, and 34.3% (11/32) changing dose or medication for anxiety and 37.5% (12/32) for depression. CONCLUSION: Among patients undergoing fetal surgery, a high incidence of PMAD was identified. Most patients with prepregnancy anxiety or depression experienced an exacerbation postpartum. Further research into effective supportive interventions is warranted.