The multi-center Management of Myelomeningocele Study (MOMS) trials found equivalent outcomes between the bipedicle flap technique and conventional closure for the neural tube defect.

Now, a follow-up study by researchers at Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt that compared outcomes of pre- and postnatal closure of myelomeningocele, the most serious form of spina bifida, has found that fetal surgery outcomes are superior to postnatal outcomes.

Primary investigator and plastic surgeon Stephane Braun, M.D., said the work capitalizes on a window of opportunity to reverse some of the factors that cause Chiari II malformation and reduces the need for CSF shunting. Other benefits include fewer revision surgeries and improved mobility and independent functioning.