About Us
The Leading Global Fetal Therapy Research Society
The International Fetal Medicine and Surgery Society promotes fetal diagnosis and therapy and encourages global diversity in the field of medicine through annual meetings worldwide for the past 40 years.
OUR MISSION
to promote and encourage the development and advancement of fetal diagnosis and therapy field.
Who We Are
Our international community represents a global effort that focuses on the advancement of fetal diagnosis, fetal therapy, education and collaborative research.
The International Fetal Medicine and Surgery Society aims to streamline efforts in education and research pertaining to fetal diagnosis and therapy. Our primary objective is to enhance knowledge in understanding the origins and pathophysiology of genetic and development birth defects. By doing so, we aim to explore the possibilities of prenatal prevention and interventions, ultimately aiming to improve outcomes for both mothers and fetuses. To achieve our goals, we focus on the following key areas:
Simplifying Complex Concepts
Our society works to demystify intricate scientific and medical concepts related to fetal diagnosis and therapy. We strive to make information accessible to a wide range of stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, researchers, and patients. By breaking down complex topics into simpler terms, we aim to foster a better understanding among all involved parties.
Promoting Education and Research
We are committed to advancing education and research in the field of fetal medicine. Through our annual meetings, conferences, and workshops, we provide a platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration. Our society encourages professionals from diverse backgrounds and disciplines to contribute their expertise and insights, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to tackle these complex issues.
Exploring Prevention Opportunities
We recognize the critical role that prenatal prevention plays in reducing the burden of genetic and developmental birth defects. By supporting research focused on understanding the origins of these conditions, we aim to identify potential opportunities for prevention. Our goal is to intervene during the prenatal period, altering the trajectory of these birth defects and improving maternal and fetal outcomes.
Improving Maternal and Fetal Outcomes
Ultimately, our primary objective is to improve the outcomes for both mothers and fetuses through advances in prenatal diagnosis and the development of therapeutic options. Through our collective efforts, we aim to enhance the understanding of fetal development, pathophysiology, and intervention techniques. By advancing knowledge and disseminating the latest research findings, we seek to empower healthcare providers in their decision-making process and optimize the care provided to expectant mothers and their unborn babies.
JOIN US!
Become a Valued Member
We are always welcoming new members who are enthusiastic about all fields related to fetal medicine and surgery to join us at the International Fetal Medicine and Surgery Society. Our diverse group of professionals includes specialists in multiple fields such as pediatric surgery, maternal-fetal medicine, OB/GYN, neonatology, anesthesiology, cardiology, plastic/reconstructive surgery, genetics, ethics, and more. Join us at our annual meeting to become a member!
SUPPORT US!
IFMSS Foundation
The IFMSS Foundation, a US charity, supports IFMSS Society's mission to improve prenatal diagnosis and treatment. It provides ongoing funding and assists society presidents annually. Established in 2001, it aids society presidents with meeting costs, academic expenses, research awards, and travel funds for junior researchers. Donations solely support the Foundation's mission, with no salaries paid to board members.
Our Historical Timeline
IFMSS Through the Years
Front Row: William Liley, Albert Jonsen, Frank Manning, Roy Filly, Charlotte Catz, Robert Krock, Michael Harrison, Maria Michejda, Mitchell Golbus, Joseph Schulman, and Morris Mahoney. Second Row: Frederic Frigaletto, Paul Meier, Alfred de Lorimier, William Garrett, Kevin Pringle, Peter Callen, William Clewell, Donald Nakayama, John Fletcher, and Richard Depp. Third Row: Richard Berkowitz, Tim Canty, Mark Rosen, Michael Edwards, Michael Johnson, Walter Garey, Lewis Nelson, John Newkirk, and Charles Rodeck.
1982
1st Annual Meeting in Santa Ynez, Colorado USA
Hosted by: Mike Harrison
Scientific Meeting Presentations: 22
In 1982, thirty leaders in the rapidly developing areas of prenatal diagnosis and fetal therapy were invited to attend a think tank meeting at the Kroc Foundation Ranch in California. During this inaugural meeting, the group wrote a position statement on Invasive Fetal Therapy (Harrison MR, et all, “Fetal Treatment 1982, Consensus statement from Kroc Foundation Symposium”. NEJM 307:1651-1652d, 1982), agreed to establish an International Fetal Treatment Registry, and meet again the following year.
1983
2nd Annual Meeting in Aspen, Colorado USA
Hosted by: Bill Clewell
Scientific Meeting Presentations: N/A
During the 2nd annual meeting in 1983, the early results of the International Registry were presented and discussed. The consensus was there was a need to establish an international research group, thus the International Fetal Medicine and Surgery Society was officially formed.
The group agreed to hold annual scientific meetings every year rotating to international sites. They decided to “cross an ocean every year” to allow member institutions to host meetings in order to encourage and support international participation, diversity, and programmatic recognition, and limit potential international regional dominance in hosting meetings. The group agreed that the site of the next meeting would be decided by vote at the current meeting based on proposals from member centers interested in hosting.
1984 On …
