Spina bifida treatment with fetal surgery during pregnancy

Spina bifida treatment with fetal surgery is also possible during pregnancy. The method will depend on the pregnancy stage, fetus location, and disease severity. Options may include a fetoscopy or an incision on the mother's abdomen. It's worth noting that intrauterine surgery tends to have better outcomes. Fetal surgery is a complex procedure that requires anesthesia for three entities simultaneously. These include the pregnant woman, her uterus, and the fetus ( baby). During the operation, a team of doctors and an operating nurse work to cure a disease while a woman's uterus and fetus are under anesthesia. The treatment process is similar to a traditional cesarean section:The surgeons carefully open the mother's uterus to restore the spinal cord of the unborn child. He cuts the skin, then in the uterus, while the baby stays inside. Ultrasound technology monitors the baby, placenta, and amniotic fluid levels. After cutting the uterus, it is carefully stitched back up, and any necessary amniotic fluid is added to reach a healthy level. The surgeon closes the incision and restores the integrity of the abdominal wall. The procedure is typically done between the 19th and 25th week of pregnancy. Early surgery can lessen risks and increase its effectiveness. Following the operation, the pregnancy will continue for at least three months. After spina bifida surgery during pregnancy, the baby will be delivered via Cesarean section around 37 weeks.