Fetal Repair of Neural Tube Defects

Clin Perinatol. 2022 Dec;49(4):835-848. doi: 10.1016/j.clp.2022.06.004. Epub 2022 Oct 9.

Abstract

Myelomeningocele is the most common congenital neurologic defect, and the only nonlethal disease addressed by fetal surgery. A randomized control trial has established amelioration of the Arnold-Chiari II malformation, reduced ventriculoperitoneal shunt rate, and improvement in distal neurologic function in patients that receive in utero repair. Long-term follow-up of these school-age children demonstrates the persistence of these effects. The use of stem cells in fetal repair is being investigated to further improve distal motor function.

Keywords: MOMS trial; Myelomeningocele; Open neural tube defect; Spina bifida.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Female
  • Fetal Therapies*
  • Fetus / surgery
  • Humans
  • Meningomyelocele* / surgery
  • Neural Tube Defects* / surgery
  • Pregnancy
  • Prenatal Care
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic