Objectives: Myelomeningocele is one of the most common dysraphic defects. Does shortening the time of exposure to the toxic effects of amniotic fluid and mechanical trauma in utero on the herniated spinal cord and spinal nerves, thanks to prenatal surgery, reduce the risk of hydrocephalus with improved musculoskeletal function and better function of the urinary and digestive systems? The aim of the study was to compare the clinical effects of prenatal and postnatal surgery for myelomeningocele in pediatric patients.
Methods: Comparison of urological, digestive and motor function in children following prenatal versus postnatal repair of myelomeningocele. The study group consisted of 110 children- 46 operated prenatally and 64 patients postnatally. Information about the children’s assessment of shunt-dependent hydrocephalus, motor skills, bladder and bowel function was obtained from a validated survey questionnaire completed by the children’s parents.
Results: In the prenatal group, there was a significantly (
p = 0.011) lower percentage of hydrocephalus treated with a shunt (45.71%) compared to the postnatal group (78.26%). The prenatal group revealed a lower percentage of paresis (
p = 0.0422) and contractures of the lower limbs (
p = 0.0108) and varus deformity (
p = 0.0272). Also, in the prenatal group, fewer children move with only the use of a wheelchair (
p = 0.0280) and more move independently or with orthopedic equipment (
p = 0.0280). In prenatal children, the overall grade of vesico-ureteral reflux was significantly lower (
p = 0.0105) and there was also a higher percentage of children with self-controlled defecation (
p = 0.0395) and fewer children using enemas (
p = 0.0269) and oral pharmacological agents (
p = 0.0026).
Conclusions: In children with myelomeningocele operated prenatally, compared to the postnatal group, shunt-dependent hydrocephalus and bladder and bowel incontinence were observed with significantly less frequency, and there was better musculoskeletal function. More children operated prenatally moved independently or with orthopedic equipment, and fewer used an orthopedic wheelchair. Further studies, particularly in even larger patient groups, are required to assess clinical benefits of prenatal surgery for children with myelomeningocele.
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