Fontecha CG, Peiro JL, Sevilla JJ, Aguirre M, Soldado F, Fresno L, Fonseca C, Chacaltana A, Martinez V.
Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol. 2011 Jun;156(2):171-6.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21353374
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
Assess the feasibility of a fetoscopic patch coverage method for myelomeningocele repair in a sheep model.
STUDY DESIGN:
Experimental study. A myelomeningocele-like defect was created in 15 fetal sheep on day 75 of gestation. Six remained untreated, whereas 9 underwent fetoscopic coverage of the defect on day 95 of gestation using an inert patch secured with surgical sealant. Clinical and histological examinations were performed after delivery.
RESULTS:
Four valid newborn lambs were obtained in each group. Mean fetoscopic surgical time was 26.9 (SD=7.4)min. All untreated animals had an open lumbar defect with cerebrospinal fluid leakage, paraplegia, urinary incontinence, and Chiari malformation. All treated animals had a closed defect and were able to walk; one had weak bladder control, and another mild Chiari malformation.
CONCLUSION:
In a chronic myelomeningocele model in fetal sheep, fetoscopic repair using a sealed patch results in simple, fast, satisfactory neural tube closure and averts neurological damage and Chiari malformation.
