Multidisciplinary team counseling for fetal anomalies

Prenatal management of fetal anomalies requires a cooperative effort of the family, obstetrician, ultrasonographer, neonatologist, pediatric subspecialists, nursing staff, geneticists, and social workers. Our approach to these patients is to convene all team members and the family shortly after an anomaly is identified to review the diagnosis, prognosis, plans, and alternatives. Team counseling offers a clear definition of the problem, avoids unnecessary confusion and anxiety for the family, and provides a supportive environment during this family crisis. Our experience with 28 families has been favorable and is described herein.