Medical doctors at the Kenyatta National Hospital have successfully transfused a baby while still in the mother’s uterus.

An intrauterine transfusion is a procedure in which red blood cells from a donor are injected into the fetus. Intrauterine transfusion may be recommended when a fetus has anaemia (low red blood cell count).

Using ultrasound to determine the position of the fetus and placenta, the surgeon inserts a needle into the mother’s abdomen and then into the umbilical vein or the fetus’ abdomen.

Red blood cells that are compatible with the fetus’ blood type are passed through the needle into the fetus.

Fetal transfusions may need to be repeated every few weeks until the fetus is

ready to be born.

The mother is given antibiotics, local anesthesia, and IV sedation, which also sedates the fetus.

The fetus may be given additional medication to stop movement.

The Intrauterine Fetal Transfusion, was undertaken by a team of four doctors who included specialists Dr. Rosa Chemwey, Dr. Flavia Ogutu, and Dr. Ikol Adung’o, as well as Dr. Kunjira Murayi (Interventional Radiologist).

They were assisted by Nurses Mr. Benson Nyankuru, Ms. Redempata Mumo, and a

reproductive Health Clinical Officer – Mr. Tony Wainaina.

According to Dr. Chemwey, out of the four pregnancies, the mother only had one successful delivery.

“The mother only has one baby, the last two died of a blood complication known as hemolytic disease of the newborn,” she said.

“We are indeed very determined to ensure this particular pregnancy succeeds. We hope for positive outcomes. This baby is 25 weeks, three days old,” said Dr Chemwey.

She said the baby had severe anemia because the baby was ‘rhesus alloimmunized’.