India's First Fetal Surgery Saves Unborn Child

In a pioneering medical achievement, India's first open fetal repair of a severe spinal defect was performed at AIIMS in Delhi on November 12. This complex procedure involved over 30 specialists and lasted six hours, taking place when the fetus was 25 weeks pregnant. The surgery addressed lumbosacral myelomeningocele, a severe form of spina bifida where the spinal cord protrudes through an opening in the spine. This defect can lead to paralysis and neurological issues. Experts performed the surgery to halt damage that occurs during pregnancy. The MOMS trial demonstrated that prenatal repair can reduce the necessity for hydrocephalus treatment and enhance early motor abilities in selected infants. Risks such as premature birth and uterine scarring are associated with fetal surgery, necessitating careful patient selection. This advancement in India's public healthcare system, performed for free under a government program, offers hope for thousands of babies born annually with neural tube defects. Prevention through folic acid remains crucial, but this surgery marks a significant step forward in treating severe spina bifida.