BNews Desk
LOS ANGELES: Scientists have successfully used placenta-derived stem cells during fetal surgery to repair spinal damage in babies diagnosed with severe spina bifida, offering hope for long-term neurological improvement. The groundbreaking procedure involved implanting stem cells directly into the fetal spine during pregnancy, with promising results reported after birth.
Spina bifida is a serious birth defect in which a baby’s spine does not fully develop in the womb, potentially causing paralysis, mobility issues, and brain abnormalities such as hindbrain herniation. In the California study, six pregnant women between 24 and 25 weeks of gestation underwent surgery to repair the defect, with stem cells injected into the spinal cord. After delivery, MRI scans showed intact spinal cords and complete resolution of hindbrain herniation in all six babies.
Researchers say the findings suggest stem cell therapy could play a key role in fetal repair of spina bifida, addressing neurological damage before birth and potentially changing the future management of the condition. Experts note that further studies are needed to confirm safety and long-term effectiveness, but the results offer hope for improving the lives of children born with the disorder.
#SpinaBifida #StemCellTherapy #FetalSurgery #BirthDefectTreatment #MedicalBreakthrough #PlacentaStemCells #NeurologicalRepair #ChildHealth #MedicalInnovation #HealthcareNews
