mediacongo.net – News – Medical prowess: two babies operated on in utero spine in the United Kingdom

For the first time in the UK, two babies were operated on while their spine was still in their mother's uterus to treat a severe malformation of their central nervous system.

Paralysis, loss of sensitivity of the lower limbs, incontinence … Spina Bifida, a rare conbad malformation, can have very serious consequences. It occurs in utero during the first months of pregnancy. During fetal development, the neural tube (which gives rise to the spinal cord and the entire nervous system) does not close completely in the lower back. Result: the two or three vertebrae that surround it can not come together to form the spine, leaving the spinal cord and its roots unprotected. This tissue exposure can cause leakage of cerebrospinal fluid and impair brain development, potentially leading to long-term health and mobility problems for the child.

Act early to limit neurological sequelae

In the past, surgeons closed the exposed spine after the child was born when it was strong enough to undergo an invasive medical procedure. For the first time in the UK, this malformation, detected 90% by ultrasound, could be operated even before delivery of the mother. Studies have shown that repairing the spine earlier could stop cerebrospinal fluid loss and improve the health and mobility of the baby.

This surgical feat had already been performed in France in 2014. In turn, a team of 30 members of the English medical staff performed two 90-minute surgeries at the University College Hospital in London, repairing a small opening in the columns. vertebral infants while they were still pregnant.

"It's fantastic, women do not need to leave the UK anymore, they can be with their families, there is less spending, than positive," said University Professor Anna David. Middle School.

An intervention that presents risks

The procedure is obviously not without risk, neither for the child nor for the mother. It exposes to complications, risks of infections or can cause premature birth. It also imposes a cesarean birth.

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allodoctors / MCP, via mediacongo.net