Clinical Research – Ongoing Work

CLINICAL RESEARCH

Work in Progress

Developing a surgical technique to relocate an implanted embryo/fetus for application in an ectopic pregnancy

Goals: Ectopic pregnancy remains a serious obstetric condition for which embryonic salvage is currently not feasible. This study aimed to assess the anatomical feasibility of the initial surgical steps required for ectopic pregnancy relocation. A cadaveric feasibility study was performed in a fresh female cadaveric donor following the relocation-oriented approach proposed by Buskmiller et al. (2024). Through laparotomy, the fallopian tube was progressively mobilized toward the uterine cavity by dissection of the anterior leaf of the broad ligament and the mesovarium while preserving the ovarian and uterine arterial supply. An optional section of the proximal tube at the isthmus, with preservation of the tubal branches of the uterine artery, was evaluated to increase rotational freedom. After the mobilization phase, a hysterotomy was performed and the tube was invaginated into the uterine cavity to reproduce the intended final relocation maneuver. Findings were documented with procedural photographs and a narrated step-by-step video. The approach proved anatomically feasible, achieving adequate angulation without compromising vascular integrity. These findings support further refinement of the technique and future assessment of physiologic feasibility in ex vivo perfusion models before animal studies.

Investigators: Eneko De Diego López de Araya