Middle East's First In-Utero Surgery At KFSHRC Corrects Fetus Spinal Defect

King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre (KFSHRC) in Riyadh has successfully performed a groundbreaking surgery on a 26-week-old fetus to correct a congenital spinal defect. This pioneering procedure, the first of its kind in the Middle East, was conducted using fetal endoscopic surgery, bringing hope and relief to the family.

The medical team used a fetal endoscope to make three small incisions in the uterus, each no more than 2 millimeters. Throughout the surgery, ultrasound monitored the fetus, ensuring the congenital defect was repaired successfully. This method protects the spinal cord and enhances the baby's future health and development.

Dr. Saud Alshanafey, lead surgeon and Director of the Fetal Diagnosis and Therapy Program, commented on this success: "This achievement reflects significant medical advancements in fetal surgery and highlights KFSHRC's commitment to providing the highest standards of healthcare to improve the quality of life for fetuses and their families in the Kingdom and beyond."

Spina bifida is a common congenital defect affecting 1 in every 1,000 to 2,000 births worldwide. It occurs when the spine and spinal cord do not form properly due to incomplete closure of the neural tube during early pregnancy. This condition exposes the spinal cord to amniotic fluid, impacting nerves in the lower limbs, bladder, and digestive system.

The traditional approach for spina bifida involves post-birth surgery to prevent infections in the nervous system. However, this method may not fully prevent neurological complications from spinal cord exposure during pregnancy. The novel procedure at KFSHRC repairs the defect using minimally invasive techniques without opening the uterus.

KFSHRC's Commitment to Excellence

King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre has been ranked first in the Middle East and Africa and 20th globally among top academic medical centres for two consecutive years. It is also recognised as the most valuable healthcare brand in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East by Brand Finance rankings for 2024.

The mother has shown remarkable resilience throughout this process. She has been discharged in good health and will continue her pregnancy under careful medical supervision. The intrauterine procedure aims to keep the fetus in the womb for healthy development until birth.

This early intervention reduces complex surgeries after birth while enhancing future health outcomes for babies with congenital defects. The successful repair ensures that neurological functions are preserved, reducing potential complications associated with spina bifida.

Additionally, KFSHRC was ranked among Newsweek magazine's world's best 250 hospitals in 2024. These accolades highlight KFSHRC's dedication to advancing medical care and improving patient outcomes both regionally and globally.

The innovative use of fetal endoscopic surgery marks a significant milestone in prenatal care within Saudi Arabia. By addressing congenital defects before birth, KFSHRC sets a new standard for maternal-fetal medicine in the region.

With inputs from SPA