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Breakthrough Stem Cell Therapy Shows Promise in Fetal Surgery

3/2/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Lancet reports a Phase I trial combining placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells with standard fetal surgery for myelomeningocele.
The cells were applied directly to the exposed spinal cord during the procedure.
Six pregnant women participated without infections or complications.
MRI showed hindbrain herniation reversal in all cases, with long-term monitoring to assess safety.

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Story summary

The Lancet reports a Phase I trial combining placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells with standard fetal surgery for myelomeningocele.
The cells were applied directly to the exposed spinal cord during the procedure.
Six pregnant women participated without infections or complications.
MRI showed hindbrain herniation reversal in all cases, with long-term monitoring to assess safety.