The Fetal Neurology Center of Excellence is a consulting service focused on before-delivery detection of birth defects affecting the baby's nervous system. Ours is one of only a few programs in the nation dedicated to fetal neurology.
We care for expectant parents in the following circumstances:
- An ultrasound shows brain or spine abnormalities or reveals injuries or problems in other parts of the body that may affect neurological development.
- Genetic testing identifies a nervous system disorder.
- There is a family history of neurological disease.
Our pediatric neurologists and neuroradiologists are leaders in the relatively new field of neonatal neurology. As part of the Fetal Treatment Center, we have access to advanced technologies and expertise. These resources allow us to complete our evaluations quickly and provide answers that help expectant parents navigate this stressful time.
Through our center, the Neuro-Intensive Care Nursery and the Neonatal Neurology Follow Up Clinic, our families receive seamless care before, during and after delivery.
What to expect
First, we review all prenatal test results and order additional tests, such as a fetal brain MRI or rapid whole genome sequencing, if needed. Once we make a diagnosis, we schedule an in-person or video visit to explain the results, answer your questions and provide guidance.
We can then help you develop a care plan for your pregnancy and delivery, as well as for any specialized care your child may need. With some conditions, early treatment can make a major difference. Our goal is to provide the information and support that enable you to make decisions that are right for you and your family.
Why choose UCSF
Our program offers families several advantages, including:
- Noninvasive, safe imaging procedures that pose no known risks to the pregnant patient or fetus.
- State-of-the-art imaging technology and techniques, such as neurosonography, which uses high-resolution ultrasound to produce detailed images of the developing fetal brain and spinal cord, for accurate diagnoses as early as 12 to 13 weeks of pregnancy. Fetal MRI is also available in the second and third trimesters.
- Early detection of potential brain or spinal cord abnormalities, so that families and care teams can manage the pregnancy and plan for the most effective interventions (such as fetal surgery and postnatal treatments). Diagnosing problems in utero allows us to individualize support, counseling and follow-up for each family's unique needs.
- Genetic diagnosis and counseling to optimize care and offer comprehensive solutions for brain or spinal cord abnormalities that are determined by genetic factors.
- A collaborative team approach that includes maternal-fetal medicine specialists, pediatric neurologists, neuroradiologists and neonatologists to ensure comprehensive, personalized care planning.
- Fetal surgical corrections or fetal molecular therapies (such as enzyme replacement therapy and stem cell transplantation) for certain conditions. Early diagnosis allows us to plan these treatments to maximize their impact and benefits.
- Enhanced pregnancy management, including close monitoring and proactive decision-making, to improve short- and long-term outcomes for both parent and baby.
- Continuity of care from our experts in pediatric neurology. We provide seamless support from prenatal diagnosis through postnatal follow-up, ensuring families receive consistent, expert guidance every step of the way.
Contact us
San Francisco
Phone: (800) 793-3887 (800 RX-FETUS)
Fax: (415) 502-0660
Email: [email protected]
Oakland
Phone: (510) 428-3156
Fax: (510) 450-5670
Email: [email protected]
