Fetal surgery for myelomeningocele.

Myelomeningocele is a devastating birth defect affecting a significant number of live births worldwide. Prenatal repair of myelomeningocele has been performed in the United States for 5 years with mixed results. The initial intent was to preserve distal neurological function by covering the exposed spinal cord. Although there has been relatively little effect on distal sensorimotor function, prenatal repair serendipitously led to an apparent reduction in hindbrain herniation and a possible decreased need for ventriculoperitoneal shunting. The long-term clinical consequences of these findings are not clear. What is clear, however, is that further study in the form of a prospective, randomized trial is mandatory.