Fetal Diagnosis and Therapy
Comparison of treatment and outcome between Myelomeningocele and Myeloschisis after open fetal repair - experience after first 200 cases
By Mark Boudewijns, Theres Moehrlen, Beth Padden and 8 others.
Abstract
Background
Open fetal repair of spina bifida, encompassing myelomeningocele (MMC) and myeloschisis (MS), aims to mitigate neurological damage via early intervention. While both entities share a pathophysiological foundation, their clinical presentations and surgical challenges differ.
Objective
To compare postnatal outcomes, particularly wound closure, CSF diversion, and motor function, between fetal MMC and MS repairs at a single high-volume center.
Methods
This retrospective cohort study eventually included 187 patients who underwent open fetal SB repair between 2010 and 2023. Perioperative data, wound-related complications, need for CSF diversion, and 3-year motor outcomes were analyzed and compared between MMC and MS subtypes.