Doctors save baby with rare tumor after performing first ever surgery in utero
Tammy Gonzalez discovered tumor – a problem affecting one in 100,000 pregnancies – during ultrasound at 17 weeks
When Tammy Gonzalez saw what appeared to be a giant bubble blowing from her unborn baby’s mouth during an ultrasound scan, the joy of pregnancy turned to despair as doctors diagnosed a rare and potentially fatal tumour.
Now, two years later, she has revealed for the first time how her daughter was saved by a world first operation, performed using a laser beam while Leyna – meaning little angel – was still just a foetus in her womb.
Surgeons at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital, who had waited since 2010 to formally announce news of the pioneering operation in a scientific journal before going public, today swapped high-fives with the now 20-month-old girl whose life they saved before anyone had even met her.
“They are her saviours,” wept Gonzalez, 39. “She wouldn’t be here without them.” Gonzalez, who also has a seven-year-old son with husband Alain, 38, experienced an unremarkable pregnancy until 17 weeks gestation, when a routine ultrasound showed that the perfectly-developing foetus she had seen on a scan just a week or two earlier had suddenly taken on a heartbreaking new appearance.
Extending from the roof of her mouth was a tumour the size of a peach, which appeared on the ultrasound as if it were a giant bubble in the amniotic fluid.
“You can imagine what goes through your head. ‘What is this?’ Nobody could really give me an answer because it’s so rare,” said Gonzalez, who was later told that the condition was a fetal oral teratoma, a rare tumour that affects one in 100,000 pregnancies.
Her options were to either terminate the pregnancy or wait for the baby to grow to a viable stage and hope that the problem could be corrected following delivery. Doctors warned that the chances of the latter were slim because of the rapid rate of growth of the tumour, which could increase to as much as two pounds in weight and result in fatal bleeding.
“If she was ultimately delivered alive, there was no guarantee that she would be normal, she’d have a tracheotomy, numerous surgeries, she’d have deformities,” said Gonzalez.
“I thought: ‘There has to be a way to save her.’ We started doing research, a lot of heartache and emotional distress. I asked my gynaecologist if there’s another way, if somebody could do surgery on her while she’s inside,” said Gonzalez.
She was referred to Dr Ruben Quintero, a pioneer in foetal medicine at the University of Miami. He warned her that surgery to remove such a tumour had never before been attempted in utero but he was willing to try.
“There was a lot of hope, a lot of prayers. I’m very grateful,” she said.
Quintero and his wife, foetal surgeon Eftichia Kontopoulos, operated using an endoscope guided by an ultrasound. The only cut was a minor incision in the mother’s abdomen. Using a laser, they cut away the mass in the baby’s mouth – all with Gonzalez conscious and watching on a screen.
She said: “When they finally severed the whole tumour off and I saw it float away, it was like this huge weight had been lifted off me and I could finally see her face – and it was perfect.”
Five months later, Leyna was born with no problems, weighing 8lbs 1oz. The only sign of her surgery is a tiny scar on her mouth.
Quintero said: “This is an opportunity to expand the field that we have developed, with this ability to treat birth defects in utero, and give hope to mothers.”
Horoscope for the 12 Zodiac Signs
🔥 Aries (March 21 – April 19)
Energy: High
Focus: Career & self-discipline
You’re fired up with fresh motivation. It’s a great time to tackle new projects or aim for a promotion. Just remember to channel your energy productively—impulsive decisions might backfire. Romance might heat up unexpectedly.
🌱 Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
Energy: Steady
Focus: Finances & home
Financial opportunities may arise, especially through investments or property. You’re craving more stability and comfort—maybe it’s time to redecorate your space or invest in self-care. Trust your gut when it comes to personal relationships.
🌬 Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
Energy: Curious
Focus: Communication & connections
Your words carry weight this month. Speak clearly and you’ll influence others with ease. Great time for writing, speaking, or reconnecting with old friends. Watch out for overthinking—clarity comes from slowing down.
🌊 Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
Energy: Reflective
Focus: Health & emotional well-being
Your intuition is heightened. Listen to your inner voice—it’s guiding you toward emotional clarity. Focus on your routines and health; a small habit change could lead to big results. Be gentle with yourself and others.
🔥 Leo (July 23 – August 22)
Energy: Creative
Focus: Self-expression & love
You’re glowing with charm and creativity. Whether in romance or work, you’ll attract admiration. Step into the spotlight and let your talents shine, but don’t forget to share it with those who’ve supported you.
🌱 Virgo (August 23 – September 22)
Energy: Practical
Focus: Home & healing
You’re in a mood to organize, clean, and create calm. This is a perfect time to declutter—both physically and emotionally. Nurture your family connections and give yourself permission to rest when needed.
🌬 Libra (September 23 – October 22)
Energy: Balanced
Focus: Learning & expression
You’re being called to share your thoughts and ideas. New learning opportunities may appear—don’t shy away from them. In relationships, strive for fairness but don’t ignore your own needs. You have more power than you realize.
🌊 Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)
Energy: Intense
Focus: Money & values
A deep transformation around your self-worth or finances may occur. Be mindful of where you invest your energy—financial growth is possible if you trust your instincts. Secrets may come to light, offering emotional release.
🔥 Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)
Energy: Expansive
Focus: Self-growth & visibility
You’re stepping into a phase of bold self-expression. Opportunities for travel or personal development may arise. Say yes to experiences that broaden your horizon. Romance could come from unexpected places—stay open.
🌱 Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)
Energy: Grounded
Focus: Spiritual growth & letting go
It’s a quiet but powerful time. Let go of old burdens and make peace with the past. Trust in your inner strength. Reflection now leads to major breakthroughs later. Prioritize rest and avoid overworking.
🌬 Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)
Energy: Innovative
Focus: Friendships & future planning
You’re full of ideas—and others want to hear them. This is a good time to collaborate or join a cause you care about. Social connections bring joy, but make sure to recharge alone when needed.
🌊 Pisces (February 19 – March 20)
Energy: Dreamy
Focus: Goals & recognition
You’re closer to your dreams than you think. Step into the public eye or claim a leadership role. Your creativity and compassion make a difference—use them to inspire others. Don’t let fear of judgment hold you back.