Historic Milestone: First Fetal Therapeutic Procedure in Trinidad and Tobago
South-West Regional Health Authority · 21 May 2026
The South West Regional Health Authority has achieved a milestone in maternal-fetal care with Trinidad and Tobago’s first fetal invasive therapeutic procedure, performed at San Fernando General Hospital on March 27th, 2026. The multidisciplinary team carried out a fetal paracentesis and vesicocentesis to treat a lower urinary tract obstruction from posterior urethral valves; an intervention aimed at protecting the baby’s kidney and lung development by restoring urine flow and amniotic fluid levels before birth with the hope of advancing the gestational age for delivery.
The procedure was successfully performed by Dr. Shane Khan and Dr. Balpreet Duggal, both of whom recently returned after specialized fetal medicine training abroad, and underscores the SWRHA’s commitment to building local expertise and expanding advanced fetal services.
The baby underwent corrective neonatal surgery after delivery, has been discharged from the neonatal unit.
This achievement represents an important step forward for fetal medicine in Trinidad and Tobago and highlights the SWRHA’s commitment to improving healthcare services for mothers and babies. It also supports the nation’s broader commitment to advancing maternal and child health in keeping with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and international standards of care.
Originally published by the South-West Regional Health Authority, May 21, 2026. Republished with attribution.