Ep. 51: Hot Topics in Neonatology (Part 2) Fluid Dynamics: What's New in Treating Early Pregnancy Renal Anhydramnios

We continue our four-part series “Hot Topics in Neonatology” with Part 2 that explores the latest in neonatology-related research and education with experts from across the United States.

SEGMENT 1: Amniotic fluid is the liquid that surrounds a baby during pregnancy, and it plays a key role in the development of the fetus. According to the March of Dimes, in the early weeks of pregnancy, the amniotic fluid is mostly water that comes from mom. After about 20 weeks, the baby’s urine makes up most of the amniotic fluid. There are instances, however, when there is fetal kidney disease. That means no urine, and no amniotic fluid. That is known as Early Pregnancy Renal Anhydramnios (EPRA), which is almost universally fatal. However, there is a new trial taking place in the U.S. — the RAFT Trial — which provides amniotic fluid replacement. Here to talk about this promising new development is Dr. Jena Miller, who serves as an assistant professor at the Johns Hopkins Center for Fetal Therapy in Baltimore.

SEGMENT 2: According to the NIH, medical simulation allows the acquisition of clinical and non-clinical skills for use in a health care setting through deliberate practice. In simulation, trainees can make mistakes and learn from them without the fear of harming any patients. Dr. Rachel Umoren is a Neonatologist at the University of Washington and Seattle Children’s Hospital where she is the Director of the Neonatal Education and Simulation-Based Training Program. Her research focuses on improving neonatal outcomes globally through simulation-based education, and our wide-ranging conversation includes her work using a Smart-phone-based virtual simulation app to bring training to underresourced areas here and abroad.

Guests:
Jena Miller, MD, Assistant Professor, John Hopkins Center for Fetal Therapy
Rachel Umoren, MD, MS, Director, Neonatal Education and Simulation-Based Training Program, Seattle Children’s Hospital

Host/Producer: Carol Vassar

Full Series:
Part 1, Episode 50
The NICU View: Mom & Baby 

Part 3, Episode 52
Fragile Beginnings: Exploring NEC in Newborns

Part 4, Episode 53
Babies in Crisis: Understanding Neonatal Abstinence 

Views expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect the views of the host or management. 

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