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Lapa DA, Callado GY, Catissi G, Trigo L, Faig-Leite F, Sevilla APAB. The impact of a biocellulose-based repair of fetal open spina bifida on the need to untether the cord: is it time to unify techniques for prenatal repair? EINSTEIN-SAO PAULO 2024; 22:eAO0557. [PMID: 38695415 PMCID: PMC11081024 DOI: 10.31744/einstein_journal/2024ao0557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To report the need for cord untethering after prenatal repair of open spina bifida using a unique biocellulose-based technique performed at a later gestational age. METHODS An observational cohort study was conducted to determine the incidence of tethered cord syndrome. Between May 2013 and May 2022, we performed 172 procedures using the percutaneous fetoscopic approach in fetuses at 26-28 weeks of gestation. After placode dissection, a biocellulose patch was placed to cover the placode, a myofascial flap (when possible) was dissected, and the skin was closed. Owing to death or loss to follow-up, 23 cases were excluded. Cord tethering syndrome was defined as symptoms of medullary stretching, and the infants were evaluated and operated on by local neurosurgeons after an magnetic resonance imaging examination. Infants over 30-month had ambulation and neurodevelopment evaluations (PEDI scale). RESULTS Among 172 cases operated at a median gestational age of 26.7 weeks and delivered at 33.2 weeks, 149 cases were available for postnatal follow-up, and cord untethering was needed in 4.4% of cases (6/136; excluding 13 cases younger than 12 months). Cerebrospinal fluid diversion and bladder catheterization were needed in 38% and 36% of cases, respectively. Of the 78 cases evaluated at 30 months, 49% were ambulating independently, and 94% had normal social function. CONCLUSION The biocellulose-based technique was associated with a low rate of cord tethering, wich may be attributed to the lack of the duramater suture during prenatal repair, the formation of a neoduramater and/or later gestational age of surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise Araújo Lapa
- Hospital Israelita Albert EinsteinSão PauloSPBrazilFetal Therapy Program, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
- Hospital Infantil SabaraSão PauloSPBrazilHospital Infantil Sabara, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Gustavo Yano Callado
- Hospital Israelita Albert EinsteinFaculdade Israelita de Ciências da Saúde Albert EinsteinSão PauloSPBrazilFaculdade Israelita de Ciências da Saúde Albert Einstein, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Giulia Catissi
- Hospital Israelita Albert EinsteinSão PauloSPBrazilFetal Therapy Program, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Lucas Trigo
- Hospital Sant Joan de Déu BarcelonaCataluñaEspañaHospital Sant Joan de Déu Barcelona, Cataluña, España.
- Hospital Clínic de BarcelonaFetal Medicine Research Center BarcelonaCataluñaEspañaFetal Medicine Research Center Barcelona, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Cataluña, España.
| | - Fernanda Faig-Leite
- Hospital Israelita Albert EinsteinSão PauloSPBrazilFetal Therapy Program, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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Ahmad MA, Vergote S, Vander Poorten E, Devlieger R, De Coppi P, Mazza E, Deprest J. Exteriorization of the uterus reduces fetoscopic cannula-induced stress and strain: A finite element model analysis. Prenat Diagn 2024; 44:99-107. [PMID: 38185824 DOI: 10.1002/pd.6496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate stresses and strains in the uterine wall and fetal membranes with single/multi-port fetoscopy, simulating either a percutaneous access or via exteriorized uterus. STUDY DESIGN Finite element models based on anatomical dimensions, material properties and boundary conditions were created to simulate stresses, strains and displacements on the uterine wall and fetal membranes during simulated fetal surgery either via exteriorized uterus or percutaneous approach, and with one or three cannulas. Clinically, we measured the anatomical layer thickness and cannula entry point displacement in patients undergoing single port percutaneous fetoscopy. RESULTS Simulations demonstrate that single port percutaneous fetoscopy increases stress on the fetal membranes (+105%, 128 to 262 kPa) and uterine wall (+115%, 0.89 to 1.9 kPa) compared to exteriorized uterine access. Using three ports increases stress by 110% (148 to 312 kPa) on membranes and 113% (1.08 to 2.3 kPa) on uterine wall. Finite Element Method showed 0.75 cm uterine entry point displacement from the cutaneous entry, while clinical measurements demonstrated displacement of more than double (1.69 ± 0.58 cm), suggesting modeled measurements may be underestimations. CONCLUSION The stresses and strains on the fetal membranes and uterus are double as high when entering percutaneously than via an exteriorized uterus. Based on what can be clinically measured, this may be an underestimation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirza A Ahmad
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Group Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Simen Vergote
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Group Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Roland Devlieger
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Group Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Paolo De Coppi
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Group Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Institute for Child and Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Edoardo Mazza
- Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Empa, Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Jan Deprest
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Group Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Institute for Child and Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
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Trigo L, Chmait RH, Llanes A, Catissi G, Eixarch E, Van Speybroeck A, Lapa DA. Revisiting MOMS criteria for prenatal repair of spina bifida: upper gestational-age limit should be raised and assessment of prenatal motor function rather than anatomical level improves prediction of postnatal function. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2024; 63:53-59. [PMID: 37970655 DOI: 10.1002/uog.27536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine if the lower-extremity neurological motor function level in fetuses with open spina bifida deteriorates within the 4-week interval between a first prenatal motor assessment at around 22 weeks of gestation and a second evaluation, prior to 'late' prenatal surgery, defined as surgery at 26-28 weeks and, in certain situations, up to 30 weeks, and to assess the association between prenatal presurgical motor-function level, anatomical level of the lesion and postnatal motor-function level. METHODS This was a two-center cohort study of 94 singleton fetuses with open spina bifida which underwent percutaneous repair using the skin-over-biocellulose for antenatal fetoscopic repair (SAFER) technique between December 2016 and January 2022. All women underwent two prenatal systematic ultrasound evaluations, approximately 4 weeks apart, with the second one being performed less than 1 week before surgery, and one postnatal evaluation via physical examination within 2 months of birth. Motor-function classification was from spinal level T12 to S1, according to key muscle function. Each leg was analyzed separately; in case of discrepancy between the two legs, the worst motor-function level was considered for analysis. Motor-function-level evaluations were compared with each other and with the anatomical level as observed on ultrasound. Independent predictors of a postnatal reduction in motor-function level were assessed using a logistic regression model. RESULTS Prenatal motor-function level was assessed at a median gestational age of 22.5 (interquartile range (IQR), 20.7-24.3) and 26.7 (IQR, 25.4-27.3) weeks, with a median interval of 4.0 (IQR, 2.4-6.0) weeks. The median gestational age at surgery was 27.0 (IQR, 25.9-27.6) weeks and the postnatal examination was at median age of 0.8 (IQR, 0.3-5.4) months. There was no significant difference in motor-function level between the two prenatal evaluations (P = 0.861). We therefore decided to use the second prenatal evaluation for comparison with postnatal motor function and anatomical level. Overall, prenatal and postnatal motor function evaluations were significantly different from the anatomical level (preoperative assessment, P = 0.0015; postnatal assessment, P = 0.0333). Comparing prenatal with postnatal motor-function level, we found that 87.2% of babies had similar or improved motor function compared with that prior to prenatal surgery. On logistic regression analysis, lower anatomical level of defect and greater difference between anatomical level and prenatal motor-function level were identified as independent predictors of postnatal motor function (odds ratio, 0.237 (95% CI, 0.095-0.588) (P = 0.002) and 3.44 (95% CI, 1.738-6.813) (P < 0.001), respectively). CONCLUSIONS During a 4-week interval between first ultrasound evaluation and late fetal surgical repair of open spina bifida, motor function does not change significantly, suggesting that late repair, ≥ 26 weeks, does not impact negatively on motor-function outcome. Compared with the anatomical level of the lesion, preoperative neurological motor-function assessment via ultrasound is more predictive of postnatal motor function, and should be included in preoperative counseling. © 2023 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Trigo
- BCNatal - Fetal Medicine Research Center, Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Pourtalès Hospital, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - R H Chmait
- Los Angeles Fetal Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - A Llanes
- Los Angeles Fetal Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - G Catissi
- Fetal Therapy Program, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - E Eixarch
- BCNatal - Fetal Medicine Research Center, Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Van Speybroeck
- Children's Hospital Los Angeles, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - D A Lapa
- Fetal Therapy Program, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
- Fetal Medicine Department, Hospital Infantil Sabará, São Paulo, Brazil
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Lapa DA, Acácio GL, Trigo L, Goncalves RT, Catissi G, Gato B, Brandt R. Biocellulose patch technique for fetoscopic repair of open spina bifida in twin pregnancy. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2023; 62:558-564. [PMID: 37128166 DOI: 10.1002/uog.26236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Twin pregnancy is currently an exclusion criterion for prenatal repair of open spina bifida (OSB). The main objective of this study was to report on our experience of treating twin pregnancies with OSB using the skin-over-biocellulose for antenatal fetoscopic repair (SAFER) technique. We also discuss reconsideration of the current exclusion criteria for fetal OSB repair. METHODS Eight fetuses with OSB from seven twin pregnancies underwent successful prenatal repair. Six pregnancies were dichorionic diamniotic with only one twin affected, and one was monochorionic diamniotic with both twins affected. Percutaneous fetoscopy was performed under CO2 insufflation of the sac of the affected twin. Neurosurgical repair was performed using a biocellulose patch to protect the placode, with the skin sutured to hold the patch in place, with or without a myofascial flap. Neurodevelopment was assessed using the pediatric evaluation of disability inventory scale in babies older than 6 months of adjusted age, whereas the Alberta scale was used for babies younger than 6 months of adjusted age. RESULTS All 14 fetuses were liveborn and none required additional repair. Gestational age at surgery ranged from 27.3 to 31.1 weeks, and gestational age at birth ranged from 31.6 to 36.0 weeks. Four out of eight affected twins developed sepsis, but had a good recovery. No sequela of prematurity was found in any of the unaffected twins. Short-term neurodevelopment was normal in all evaluated unaffected twins (5/5) and in all but one affected twins (7/8). In the affected group, only one baby required ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement. CONCLUSIONS Prematurity is frequent after fetal surgery, and the risk is increased in twin pregnancy. Nevertheless, prenatal surgery using the SAFER technique is feasible, with low risk to both twins and their mother when performed by a highly experienced team. Long-term cognitive assessment of the unaffected twin is needed. © 2023 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- D A Lapa
- Fetal Therapy Program, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
- Fetal and Neonatal Therapy, Hospital Infantil Sabará, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - G L Acácio
- Fetal and Neonatal Therapy, Hospital Infantil Sabará, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Taubaté, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - L Trigo
- BCNatal - Fetal Medicine Research Center, Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Pourtalès Hospital, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona
| | - R T Goncalves
- Fetal Therapy Program, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
- Gynecology Section, Hospital Servidor Público Estadual de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - G Catissi
- Fetal Therapy Program, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - B Gato
- Anesthesiology Department, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - R Brandt
- Neurosurgery Department, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
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Keil C, Köhler S, Sass B, Schulze M, Kalmus G, Belfort M, Schmitt N, Diehl D, King A, Groß S, Sutton CD, Joyeux L, Wege M, Nimsky C, Whitehead WE, Uhl E, Huisman TAGM, Neubauer BA, Weber S, Hummler H, Axt-Fliedner R, Bedei I. Implementation and Assessment of a Laparotomy-Assisted Three-Port Fetoscopic Spina Bifida Repair Program. J Clin Med 2023; 12:5151. [PMID: 37568553 PMCID: PMC10419476 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12155151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Open spina bifida (OSB) is a congenital, non-lethal malformation with multifactorial etiology. Fetal therapy can be offered under certain conditions to parents after accurate prenatal diagnostic and interdisciplinary counseling. Since the advent of prenatal OSB surgery, various modifications of the original surgical techniques have evolved, including laparotomy-assisted fetoscopic repair. After a two-year preparation time, the team at the University of Giessen and Marburg (UKGM) became the first center to provide a three-port, three-layer fetoscopic repair of OSB via a laparotomy-assisted approach in the German-speaking area. We point out that under the guidance of experienced centers and by intensive multidisciplinary preparation and training, a previously described and applied technique could be transferred to a different setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinna Keil
- Department of Prenatal Medicine and Fetal Therapy, Philipps University, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Siegmund Köhler
- Department of Prenatal Medicine and Fetal Therapy, Philipps University, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Benjamin Sass
- Department of Neurosurgery, Philipps University, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Maximilian Schulze
- Department of Neuroradiology, Philipps University, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Gerald Kalmus
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Philipps University, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Michael Belfort
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Texas Children’s Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Texas Children’s Fetal Center, Texas Children’s Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Nicolas Schmitt
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Philipps University, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Daniele Diehl
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Alice King
- Texas Children’s Fetal Center, Texas Children’s Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Texas Children’s Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Stefanie Groß
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Caitlin D. Sutton
- Department of Pediatric Anesthesiology, Perioperative, and Pain Medicine, Texas Children’s Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Luc Joyeux
- Texas Children’s Fetal Center, Texas Children’s Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Texas Children’s Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Mirjam Wege
- Division of Neonatology, University Children’s Hospital Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | | | - Wiliam E. Whitehead
- Texas Children’s Fetal Center, Texas Children’s Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Texas Children’s Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Eberhard Uhl
- Department of Neurosurgery, Justus-Liebig University, 35390 Giessen, Germany
| | - Thierry A. G. M. Huisman
- Edward B. Singleton Department of Radiology, Texas Children’s Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Bernd A. Neubauer
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Stefanie Weber
- Division of Pediatric Nephrology and Transplantation, University Children’s Hospital Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Helmut Hummler
- Division of Neonatology, University Children’s Hospital Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Roland Axt-Fliedner
- Department of Prenatal Medicine and Fetal Therapy, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, 35390 Giessen, Germany
| | - Ivonne Bedei
- Department of Prenatal Medicine and Fetal Therapy, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, 35390 Giessen, Germany
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Mustafa HJ, Arab K, Javinani A, Garg S, Nawab S, Habli M, Khalil A. Prenatal predictors of need for cerebrospinal fluid diversion in infants following prenatal repair of open spina bifida; systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Obstet Gynecol MFM 2023; 5:100983. [PMID: 37098391 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajogmf.2023.100983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate prenatal predictors of the need for cerebrospinal fluid diversion in infants following prenatal repair of open spina bifida. DATA SOURCES A systematic search was performed to identify relevant studies published from inception until June 2022 in the English language using the databases PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA We included retrospective and prospective cohort studies and randomized controlled trials reporting on prenatal repair of open spina bifida. METHODS The random-effects model was used to pool the mean differences or odds ratios and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 value. RESULTS A total of 9 studies including 948 pregnancies undergoing prenatal repair of open spina bifida were included in the final analysis. Prenatal factors that were significantly associated with the need for postnatal cerebrospinal fluid diversion were gestational age at surgery ≥25 weeks (odds ratio, 4.2; 95% confidence interval, 1.8-9.9; I2=54%; P=.001), myeloschisis (odds ratio, 2.2; 95% confidence interval, 1.1-4.1; I2=0.0%; P=.02), preoperative lateral ventricle width ≥15 mm (odds ratio, 4.5; 95% confidence interval, 2.9-6.9; I2=0.0%; P<.0001), predelivery lateral ventricle width (mm) (mean difference, 8.3; 95% confidence interval, 6.4-10.2; I2=0.0%; P<.0001), and preoperative lesion level at T12-L2 (odds ratio, 2.5; 95% confidence interval, 1.03-6.3; I2=68%; P=.04). Factors that significantly reduced the need for postnatal shunt placement were gestational age at surgery <25 weeks (odds ratio, 0.3; 95% confidence interval, 0.15-0.6; I2=67%; P=.001) and preoperative lateral ventricle width <15 mm (odds ratio, 0.3; 95% confidence interval, 0.2-0.4; I2=0.0%; P<.0001). CONCLUSION This study demonstrated that among fetuses that underwent surgical repair of open spina bifida, having gestational age at surgery of ≥25 weeks, preoperative lateral ventricle width of ≥15 mm, myeloschisis lesion type, and preoperative lesion level above L3 was predictive of the need for cerebrospinal fluid diversion during the first year of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiba J Mustafa
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN (Dr Mustafa); Fetal Center, Riley Children's Health, Indiana University Health, Indianapolis, IN (Dr Mustafa).
| | - Kholoud Arab
- Maternal Fetal Medicine Unit, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia (Dr Arab); Fetal Care Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH (Drs Arab and Habli)
| | - Ali Javinani
- Maternal Fetal Care Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA (Dr Javinani)
| | - Shreya Garg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hindu Rao Hospital, Delhi, India (Dr Garg)
| | - Sadia Nawab
- Government Maternity Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan (Dr Nawab)
| | - Mounira Habli
- Fetal Care Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH (Drs Arab and Habli)
| | - Asma Khalil
- Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's Hospital, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom (Dr Khalil); Vascular Biology Research Centre, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom (Dr Khalil)
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Oliveira GHD, Acácio GL, Gonçalves RTR, Svetliza J, Callado GY, Dias CDM, Vaz-Oliani DCM, Chmait RH, Lapa DA. Prenatal repair of gastroschisis using partial carbon dioxide insufflation fetoscopy: lessons learned. EINSTEIN-SAO PAULO 2023; 21:eRC0543. [PMID: 37255063 DOI: 10.31744/einstein_journal/2023rc0543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
We report the long-term outcomes of a case of prenatal gastroschisis repair using a fully percutaneous fetoscopic approach with partial carbon dioxide insufflation. Surgery was performed as an experimental procedure before the scheduled elective birth. The fetal intestines were successfully returned to the abdominal cavity without any fetal or maternal complications. Ultrasonography performed 24 hours later revealed bowel peristalsis and no signs of fetal distress. After 48 hours, partial extrusion of the small bowel was observed, and the fetus was delivered. Gastroschisis repair was immediately performed upon delivery using the EXIT-like procedure as per our institutional protocol. The newborn did not require assisted mechanical ventilation, was discharged at 14 days of age and was then exclusively breastfed. At 3-year follow-up, the patient had no associated gastroschisis-related complications. This is the first case of prenatal repair of gastroschisis, which provides baseline knowledge for future researchers on the potential hurdles and management of prenatal repair.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Javier Svetliza
- Hospital Interzonal General de Agudos Dr. José Penna, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Gustavo Yano Callado
- Faculdade Israelita de Ciências da Saúde Albert Einstein, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | | | - Ramen H Chmait
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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Kunpalin Y, Vergote S, Joyeux L, Telli O, David AL, Belfort M, De Coppi P, Deprest J. Local host response of commercially available dural patches for fetal repair of spina bifida aperta in rabbit model. Prenat Diagn 2023; 43:370-381. [PMID: 36650109 DOI: 10.1002/pd.6315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Fetal surgery for spina bifida aperta (SBA) by open hysterotomy typically repairs anatomical native tissue in layers. Increasingly, fetoscopic repair is performed using a dural patch followed by skin closure. We studied the host response to selected commercially available patches currently being used in a fetal rabbit model for spina bifida repair. METHODS SBA was surgically induced at 23-24 days of gestation (term = 31 days). Fetal rabbits were assigned to unrepaired (SBA group), or immediate repair with Duragen™ or Durepair™. Non-operated littermates served as normal controls. At term, spinal cords underwent immunohistochemical staining including Nissl and glial fibrillary acidic protein. We hypothesized that spinal cord coverage with a dural patch and skin closure would preserve motor neuron density within the non-inferiority limit of 201.65 cells/mm2 and reduce inflammation compared to unrepaired SBA fetuses. RESULTS Motor neuron density assessed by Nissl staining was conserved both by Duragen (n = 6, 89.5; 95% CI -158.3 to -20.6) and Durepair (n = 6, 37.0; 95% CI -132.6 to -58.5), whereas density of GFAP-positive cells to quantify inflammation was lower than in unrepaired SBA-fetuses (SBA 2366.0 ± 669.7 cells/mm2 vs. Duragen 1274.0 ± 157.2 cells/mm2 ; p = 0.0002, Durepair 1069.0 ± 270.7 cells/mm2 ; p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Covering the rabbit spinal cord with either Duragen or Durepair followed by skin closure preserves motor neuron density and reduces the inflammatory response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yada Kunpalin
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Biomedical Sciences, MyFetUZ Fetal Research Center, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Simen Vergote
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Biomedical Sciences, MyFetUZ Fetal Research Center, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Luc Joyeux
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Onur Telli
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Biomedical Sciences, MyFetUZ Fetal Research Center, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Anna L David
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Biomedical Sciences, MyFetUZ Fetal Research Center, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Michael Belfort
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Michael E. DeBakey Department of Surgery, Texas Children's Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Paolo De Coppi
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Biomedical Sciences, MyFetUZ Fetal Research Center, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jan Deprest
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Biomedical Sciences, MyFetUZ Fetal Research Center, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
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9
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Advances in Fetal Surgical Repair of Open Spina Bifida. Obstet Gynecol 2023; 141:505-521. [PMID: 36735401 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000005074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Spina bifida remains a common congenital anomaly of the central nervous system despite national fortification of foods with folic acid, with a prevalence of 2-4 per 10,000 live births. Prenatal screening for the early detection of this condition provides patients with the opportunity to consider various management options during pregnancy. Prenatal repair of open spina bifida, traditionally performed by the open maternal-fetal surgical approach through hysterotomy, has been shown to improve outcomes for the child, including decreased need for cerebrospinal fluid diversion surgery and improved lower neuromotor function. However, the open maternal-fetal surgical approach is associated with relatively increased risk for the patient and the overall pregnancy, as well as future pregnancies. Recent advances in minimally invasive prenatal repair of open spina bifida through fetoscopy have shown similar benefits for the child but relatively improved outcomes for the pregnant patient and future childbearing.
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10
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Pontell ME, Yengo-Kahn AM, Taylor E, Kane M, Newton JM, Bennett KA, Wellons JC, Braun SA. Intrauterine closure of myelomeningocele defects with primary linear repair versus bipedicle fasciocutaneous flaps: a post-MOMS cohort study with long-term follow-up. J Neurosurg Pediatr 2023; 31:143-150. [PMID: 36433869 DOI: 10.3171/2022.10.peds22357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to determine the effects of in utero bipedicle flaps on maternal-fetal morbidity/mortality, the need for CSF diversion, and long-term functional outcomes. METHODS Eighty-six patients who underwent fetal myelomeningocele repair from 2011 to 2021 at a single institution were reviewed. Primary outcomes included intrauterine fetal demise, postnatal death, postnatal myelomeningocele repair dehiscence, and CSF diversion by final follow-up. RESULTS The cohorts were no different with regard to race, ethnicity, maternal age at fetal surgery, body mass index, gravidity, parity, gestational age at fetal surgery, estimated fetal weight at fetal surgery, or fetal lesion level. Of the 86 patients, 64 underwent primary linear repair and 22 underwent bipedicle flap repair. There were no significant differences in rates of intrauterine fetal demise, postnatal mortality, midline repair site dehiscence, or the need for CSF diversion by final follow-up. Operative times were longer (32.5 vs 18.7 minutes, p < 0.001) and gestational age at delivery was lower (232 vs 241 days, p = 0.01) in the bipedicle flap cohort, but long-term functional outcomes were not different. CONCLUSIONS Analysis of the total cohort affirms the long-term benefits of fetal myelomeningocele repair. In utero bipedicle flaps are safe and can be used for high-tension lesions without increasing perioperative risks to the mother or fetus. In utero flaps preserve the long-term benefits seen with primary linear repair and may expand inclusion criteria for fetal repair, providing life-changing care for more patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Emily Taylor
- 3The Fetal Center at Vanderbilt, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville
| | - Morgan Kane
- 4Pediatric Rehabilitation Services, Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville
| | - J Michael Newton
- 3The Fetal Center at Vanderbilt, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville
- 5Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville
| | - Kelly A Bennett
- 3The Fetal Center at Vanderbilt, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville
- 5Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville
| | - John C Wellons
- 1Departments of Plastic Surgery
- 3The Fetal Center at Vanderbilt, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville
- 6The Surgical Outcomes Center for Kids, Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville; and
- 7Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Stephane A Braun
- 1Departments of Plastic Surgery
- 3The Fetal Center at Vanderbilt, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville
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11
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Donoho DA, Syed HR. Fetal Neurosurgical Interventions for Spinal Malformations, Cerebral Malformations, and Hydrocephalus: Past, Present, and Future. Semin Pediatr Neurol 2022; 42:100964. [PMID: 35868731 DOI: 10.1016/j.spen.2022.100964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
In this article we review the last 40 years of progress in fetal neurosurgery with special attention to current controversies and upcoming challenges in the field. We surveyed the published literature describing prenatal interventions for spinal malformations, cerebral malformations, and hydrocephalus. Even the most mature treatment paradigm, intrauterine repair of myelomeningocele, stands to benefit from advances in imaging and therapeutic modalities to improve patient selection, refine surgical techniques, validate novel biologic therapies, and streamline postoperative patient care. Other conditions under evaluation include congenital cerebral malformations, such as encephalocele, cerebrovascular malformations, and hydrocephalus. We describe cross-cutting needs for advances in fetal neuroimaging, basic disease models and new therapeutic devices to support further progress across various neurosurgical conditions affecting patients during the fetal period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel A Donoho
- Division of Neurosurgery, Center for Neuroscience, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC; Sheikh Zayed Institute for Pediatric Surgical Innovation, Arlington, VA; Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, George Washington University, Washington, DC
| | - Hasan R Syed
- Division of Neurosurgery, Center for Neuroscience, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC; Sheikh Zayed Institute for Pediatric Surgical Innovation, Arlington, VA; Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, George Washington University, Washington, DC.
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12
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Hernandez NE, Bryant JP, Niazi TN. Myelomeningocele Including Fetal Prescription. Pediatr Rev 2022; 43:384-393. [PMID: 35773538 DOI: 10.1542/pir.2022-001255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Myelomeningocele (MMC) is one of the most common birth defects, affecting 0.2 to 0.4 per 1,000 live births in the United States. The most strongly associated risk factor is low folate level in pregnancy. For this reason, 0.4- to 1.0-mg supplementation with folic acid is recommended in all pregnancies, and high-risk pregnancies are recommended to supplement with 4.0 mg of folic acid daily. The mechanism behind the development of MMC is believed to be failure of the caudal end of the neural tube to close during primary neurulation. Screening for MMC is achieved by using α-fetoprotein levels in maternal serum or amniocentesis in the first and second trimesters of pregnancy. Ultrasonography and fetal magnetic resonance imaging are used to confirm the presence of MMC as well as the location and size of the defect. Based on the results of the Management of Myelomeningocele Study, fetal repair is performed between 23 weeks and 25 weeks and 6 days of gestational age for appropriate candidates. Postnatal repair is more common and is performed 24 to 72 hours after birth. In general, patients with lesions at lower anatomical levels have a better prognosis. Most children with MMC will have neurogenic bladder and bowel dysfunction that affect the patient's and the caregiver's quality of life. Patients with higher levels of mobility, better familial support, and higher economic status report improved quality of life compared with other patients with MMC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole E Hernandez
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Brain Institute, Nicklaus Children's Hospital, Miami, FL
| | | | - Toba N Niazi
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Brain Institute, Nicklaus Children's Hospital, Miami, FL
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13
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Chmait RH, Monson MA, Pham HQ, Chu JK, Speybroeck AVAN, Chon AH, Kontopoulos EV, Quintero RA. Percutaneous/mini-laparotomy fetoscopic repair of open spina bifida: a novel surgical technique. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2022; 227:375-383. [PMID: 35752302 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2022.05.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Revised: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Open spina bifida (OSB) is the most common congenital anomaly of the central nervous system compatible with life. Prenatal repair of open spina bifida via open maternal-fetal surgery has been shown to improve postnatal neurological outcomes, including reducing the need for ventriculoperitoneal shunting and improving lower neuromotor function. Fetoscopic repair of OSB minimizes the maternal risks while providing similar neurosurgical outcomes to the fetus. Two fetoscopic techniques are currently in use: (1) the laparotomy-assisted approach, and (2) the percutaneous approach. The laparotomy-assisted fetoscopic technique appears to be associated with less risk of preterm birth compared to the percutaneous approach. However, the percutaneous approach avoids laparotomy and uterine exteriorization, and is associated with less anesthesia risk and improved maternal post-surgical recovery. The purpose of this paper is to describe our experience with a novel surgical approach, which we call percutaneous/mini-laparotomy fetoscopy (PML), in which access to the uterus for one of the ports is done via a mini-laparotomy, while the other ports are inserted percutaneously. This technique draws on the benefits of both the laparotomy-assisted and the percutaneous techniques, while minimizing their drawbacks. This surgical approach may prove invaluable in the prenatal repair of open spina bifida as well as other complex fetal surgical procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramen H Chmait
- Los Angeles Fetal Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA; The USFetus Research Consortium, Miami, FL-Los Angeles, CA
| | - Martha A Monson
- Los Angeles Fetal Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA; Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Intermountain Healthcare, Salt Lake City, UT; Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Huyen Q Pham
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Jason K Chu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Alexander VAN Speybroeck
- Department of General Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Andrew H Chon
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR
| | - Eftichia V Kontopoulos
- The Fetal Institute, Miami, FL; The USFetus Research Consortium, Miami, FL-Los Angeles, CA; Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wertheim School of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL
| | - Ruben A Quintero
- The Fetal Institute, Miami, FL; The USFetus Research Consortium, Miami, FL-Los Angeles, CA; Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wertheim School of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL
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14
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Lapa DA, de Souza Leão JV. Reply. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2021; 58:959-960. [PMID: 34855299 DOI: 10.1002/uog.24802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- D A Lapa
- Fetal Therapy Team, Hospital Infantil Sabara, São Paulo, Brazil
- Fetal Therapy Group, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - J V de Souza Leão
- Department of Pediatric Urology, Hospital Infantil Sabara, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Pediatric Urology, Hospital Infantil Darcy Vargas, São Paulo, Brazil
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15
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Macedo A, Leal da Cruz M. Re: Percutaneous fetoscopic spina bifida repair: effect on ambulation and need for postnatal cerebrospinal fluid diversion and bladder catheterization. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2021; 58:958-959. [PMID: 34855296 DOI: 10.1002/uog.24801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- A Macedo
- Department of Pediatrics, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Urology, CACAU-NUPEP, São Paulo, Brazil
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16
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Paslaru FG, Panaitescu AM, Iancu G, Veduta A, Gica N, Paslaru AC, Gheorghiu A, Peltecu G, Gorgan RM. Myelomeningocele Surgery over the 10 Years Following the MOMS Trial: A Systematic Review of Outcomes in Prenatal versus Postnatal Surgical Repair. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 57:medicina57070707. [PMID: 34356988 PMCID: PMC8307221 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57070707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Myelomeningocele is the most severe form of spina bifida, a congenital neural tube defect arising from an incomplete neural tube closure during early development with damage worsening with advancing gestational age. The Management of Myelomeningocele Study (MOMS) Trial proved that surgery performed before 26 weeks of gestation significantly improved the prognosis, significantly changing treatment paradigms. This article aims to provide a review of the changes and updates in spina bifida repair over the 10-year period following the MOMS Trial. Material and methods: We performed a systematic review in the PubMed and Cochrane databases as well as a hand-search of high-impact journals using the reference list of all identified articles, searching for randomized controlled trials and observational studies. Results: We identified 27 articles published between 2011 and 2021 that fulfilled the inclusion criteria and review them in the present study. Conclusions: With growing experience and with the improvement of prenatal open and fetoscopic techniques, the outcome of SB-associated conditions could be improved and the risks to both the mother and the fetus reduced. A continuous follow-up of the treated infants and further randomized trials are essential to study the complications and advantages or disadvantages of any given treatment strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Gabriela Paslaru
- Neurosurgical Department, “Bagdasar-Arseni” Clinical Emergency Hospital, 041915 Bucharest, Romania; (F.G.P.); (A.G.); (R.M.G.)
- Neurosurgery Department, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Anca Maria Panaitescu
- Filantropia Clinical Hospital, 11171 Bucharest, Romania; (G.I.); (A.V.); (N.G.); (G.P.)
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +40-23188930
| | - George Iancu
- Filantropia Clinical Hospital, 11171 Bucharest, Romania; (G.I.); (A.V.); (N.G.); (G.P.)
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alina Veduta
- Filantropia Clinical Hospital, 11171 Bucharest, Romania; (G.I.); (A.V.); (N.G.); (G.P.)
| | - Nicolae Gica
- Filantropia Clinical Hospital, 11171 Bucharest, Romania; (G.I.); (A.V.); (N.G.); (G.P.)
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alexandru Catalin Paslaru
- Physiology Department, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Anamaria Gheorghiu
- Neurosurgical Department, “Bagdasar-Arseni” Clinical Emergency Hospital, 041915 Bucharest, Romania; (F.G.P.); (A.G.); (R.M.G.)
| | - Gheorghe Peltecu
- Filantropia Clinical Hospital, 11171 Bucharest, Romania; (G.I.); (A.V.); (N.G.); (G.P.)
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Radu Mircea Gorgan
- Neurosurgical Department, “Bagdasar-Arseni” Clinical Emergency Hospital, 041915 Bucharest, Romania; (F.G.P.); (A.G.); (R.M.G.)
- Neurosurgery Department, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania
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