Fetal Skeletal Dysplasia Care in the UAE
Fetal skeletal dysplasia in the UAE includes a diverse group of genetic conditions causing abnormal bone and cartilage growth. Managed at Mediclinic MFM Units (Abu Dhabi & Al Ain Hubs), our specialists utilize high-resolution 3D/4D ultrasound, molecular testing, and multi-disciplinary counseling to assess severity, identify specific genetic changes, and plan management.
Who This Page is For
Customized clinical pathways and insights to support our patients and referring medical partners.
Pregnant Patient
Mothers whose scans show abnormally short fetal limbs, bone fractures, or chest abnormalities.
Referring Doctor
Obstetricians referring cases with fetal long bones measuring below the 5th percentile for diagnostic workup.
Abnormal Screening
Mothers seeking specialized 3D ultrasound measurement and assessment of fetal skeletal mineralization.
Second Opinion
Parents wanting expert consultation on lethality, prognosis, and molecular genetic testing options.
When to see MFM
What we do
What happens during the visit
Detailed metric survey measuring all fetal long bones, head circumference, and chest-to-abdomen ratio.
A comprehensive discussion of findings, lethality markers, and prognostic indicators.
Offering amniocentesis for molecular confirmation of genetic variants (FGFR3, COL1A1/A2, etc.).
Establishing a specialized birth plan and postnatal management roadmap.
When urgent referral is needed
- Severe skeletal dysplasia with indicators of critical chest narrowing (pulmonary hypoplasia risk).
- Standard prenatal emergencies like bleeding, leaking of fluid, or pain.
Where the service is available
Available across Mediclinic MFM hubs in Abu Dhabi (Airport Road Hospital) and Al Ain (Al Jowhara Hospital), with referral pathways coordinating care for patients nationwide.
Why Fetus.ae / Mediclinic MFM
Specialists Available
Fellowship-trained, internationally recognized consultants offering evidence-based precision care.
Dr. Ali Al-Ibrahim
Head of Unit, Consultant Maternal Fetal MedicineConsultant in Maternal-Fetal Medicine in Al Ain and Abu Dhabi with more than 25 years of experience, University of Toronto fellowship training, and Arab and Saudi Board certification in OBGYN.
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Dr. Leanne Bricker MB.BCh FRCOG
Consultant in Fetal & Maternal MedicineOver three decades of clinical excellence, serving as Chair of Fetal Medicine at Corniche Hospital from 2014-2025.
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Dr. Soha Tohamy Said MB BCH MRCPI, FRCOG
Consultant Obstetrics and Gynecology, Consultant Maternal Fetal MedicineFormer Department Chair of Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Corniche Hospital with immense experience leading tertiary maternity services.
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Dr. Najwa Mohamed El Fky
Consultant Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Maternal Fetal Medicine SpecialistConsultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist and Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist with extensive experience in high-risk obstetrics, prenatal diagnosis, and obstetric ultrasound.
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Dr. Bernard Nasr
Consultant Obstetrics/Gynecology, Maternal Fetal MedicineFrench-trained MFM expert proficient in invasive therapeutic procedures and multiple pregnancy complications.
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Dr. Marija Hadji Lega
Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist, Associate ProfessorInternationally trained specialist with 25+ years of clinical experience, renowned for advanced fetal neurology and cardiology.
View Full ProfileFrequently Asked Questions
Clinical answers directly from our specialists to help prepare you for your appointment.
Skeletal dysplasia is a term for a group of over 400 genetic conditions that affect bone and cartilage growth, leading to short stature and abnormal skeletal development.
It is suspected when ultrasound shows significantly shortened fetal limbs (typically below the 5th percentile) and is evaluated by measuring bone shape, mineralization, and chest size.
A lethal skeletal dysplasia is one that is incompatible with life, usually due to a very small chest cavity that prevents the fetal lungs from developing (pulmonary hypoplasia).
After counselling, amniocentesis may provide a sample for a targeted skeletal-dysplasia panel, exome sequencing, or another test selected for the suspected condition. A result is not guaranteed, and interpretation depends on the phenotype and test limitations.
Many cases arise from new (de novo) genetic changes that are not inherited. However, some forms are inherited, requiring clinical genetic counseling to assess recurrence risks.
Getting Here & Access
Our two hubs cover the country: Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital in Abu Dhabi and Mediclinic Al Jowhara Hospital in Al Ain. Patients from Dubai (about 60–75 minutes on the E11), Sharjah, Ajman and the Northern Emirates typically attend the Abu Dhabi hub, while Al Ain and Eastern Region families are seen locally. Referrals are coordinated so travel is minimised and, wherever possible, imaging, counselling and any procedure are grouped into as few visits as possible.
Insurance & Coverage
Across both hubs we work with major UAE insurers including Daman (Thiqa and Enhanced), ADNIC, Nextcare, NAS and other networks. Coverage and pre-authorisation vary by plan and emirate, so our team confirms eligibility and arranges approvals before you travel. Self-pay packages are available nationwide.
Areas We Serve
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Our Maternal Fetal Medicine specialists provide evidence-based assessment, clear counselling, and coordinated care.