In a groundbreaking medical achievement, a team of doctors at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC) in Abu Dhabi successfully performed a 90-minute fetoscopic surgery to repair spina bifida in a 25-week-old fetus weighing 800 grams. This minimally invasive procedure marks a significant advancement in prenatal care and showcases Abu Dhabi’s leadership in healthcare innovation.
What Is Spina Bifida?
Spina bifida is a congenital defect that occurs when the spine and the membranes surrounding the spinal cord fail to close properly during early pregnancy. This condition can lead to neurological problems and long-term disabilities, including impaired mobility and bladder and bowel dysfunction. Traditionally, spina bifida is treated after birth; however, early intervention through prenatal surgery can significantly improve outcomes.
The Surgical Procedure
The surgery was conducted under the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi’s Visiting Physicians Programme, which facilitates collaboration with international medical experts. The procedure began with the SEHA Corniche Hospital team performing an abdominal opening similar to a caesarean section. The uterus was carefully accessed while preserving its wall integrity, a critical step to avoid premature labor and maintain a sterile environment for the fetus. Ultrasound imaging was used to locate the fetus precisely, enabling the surgical team to prepare for the delicate procedure.
Using advanced fetoscopic techniques, the pediatric surgery team from SEHA SKMC carried out the delicate repair of the spina bifida defect. Specialized instruments and a camera were inserted into the uterus to repair the defect, closing the spinal opening to protect exposed nerves and the spinal cord, thereby improving the child’s function after birth. Only three incisions, each measuring three millimeters, were made, minimizing invasiveness and accelerating recovery while preserving the uterine environment.
After the repair, the abdomen was carefully closed, allowing the pregnancy to continue safely until the planned delivery.
Impact and Significance
Dr. Adel Ali Al Junaibi, Consultant Paediatric Surgeon at SEHA SKMC, emphasized the importance of early intervention, stating that prenatal repair of spina bifida “greatly improves long-term outcomes, reducing the risk of paralysis and neurological complications while limiting the need for multiple surgeries after birth.” He added, “Early intervention gives the child a better chance to walk independently and lead an active life.”
This successful surgery underscores Abu Dhabi’s commitment to delivering the highest levels of quality and innovation in healthcare, positioning the emirate as a leading global hub for medical excellence.