Long-Term Outcomes in Prenatal vs. Postnatal Surgical Repair of Myelomeningocele

The congenital anomaly of myelomeningocele leads to neurodevelopment sequelae, including neurocognitive impairment, lower extremity sensory and motor dysfunction, and bladder control abnormalities. A randomized trial of prenatal (n=79) versus postnatal (n=82) myelomeningocele repair showed better outcomes in infancy with prenatal repair. The current study is a follow-up to examine neurodevelopmental outcomes at ages 6 to 10 years.

Investigators conducted a single thorough patient evaluation comprising neurodevelopmental and behavioral evaluations, physical examination, and functioning assessments. Parents completed an adaptive-behavior assessment tool via semistructured interview. Brain imaging was performed in children examined at the cente…