Indiana’s first successful in-utero repair of spina bifida performed at Riley

(WEHT) – Officials say in a historic first for Indiana, Riley Children’s Health has performed the state’s first successful fetal repair of myelomeningocele—a severe form of spina bifida—propelling Indiana into the national spotlight for cutting-edge maternal-fetal innovation.

Indiana University Health says the complex in-utero procedure places Riley Children’s among a select group of institutions nationwide that offer the mini-laparotomy/percutaneous fetoscopic approach.

Officials say Myelomeningocele is the most serious type of spina bifida—a neural tube defect where the spinal canal and backbone do not close properly before birth. In myelomeningocele, part of the spinal cord and nerves protrude through an opening in the baby’s back, often resulting in lifelong complications including hydrocephalus, severe leg weakness, bowel and bladder dysfunction and learning difficulties.

According to Indiana University Health, this groundbreaking procedure is the result of a unique collaboration between maternal-fetal medicine and pediatric neurosurgery in the Riley Fetal Center.

Dr. Hiba Mustafa, director of fetal surgery, says this mini-laparotomy/percutaneous fetoscopic approach marks a significant advancement in what is possible for babies diagnosed with this life-altering condition.

“Myelomeningocele is among the most devastating birth defects, but with in-utero repair, we can rewrite a child’s future before they even take their first breath,” Mustafa said. “Our ability to offer this minimally invasive, high-precision surgery—right here in Indiana—means families no longer need to travel out of state for world-class care and a chance at better outcomes.”

Officials say Riley is the only hospital in Indiana currently offering this advanced fetal surgery. The repair was done using a fetoscopic approach utilizing a small maternal skin incision, which reduces risks to both mother and baby compared to traditional open fetal surgery and other fetoscopic approaches.

Dr. Jason Chu, pediatric neurosurgeon at Riley, performed the intricate spinal repair as part of a highly specialized surgical team.

“Fetal myelomeningocele repair is one of the most complex procedures in fetal surgery,” Dr. Chu said. “To see a successful outcome and following these babies as they grow up is incredibly rewarding. It’s a testament to the collaboration and dedication of our entire team.”

Officials say the baby is now being closely monitored and is expected to have improved motor outcomes thanks to the early repair.