OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital has achieved a remarkable milestone by performing the first in-utero surgery for spina bifida in the Northwest, setting a precedent for future medical interventions. This groundbreaking procedure allows surgeons to repair the spine of a fetus before birth, potentially improving the quality of life for children diagnosed with this condition. Spina bifida is a serious birth defect that occurs when the spine does not close fully during the first month of pregnancy, impacting 1 in 4,000 to 5,000 births. The successful surgery highlights the hospital's commitment to advancing prenatal care and providing innovative solutions for families. Medical experts believe that early intervention can lead to significantly better health outcomes for affected infants, reducing the severity of complications associated with spina bifida.

The achievement by OHSU Doernbecher places it among a select group of institutions capable of performing such complex procedures. As awareness of spina bifida grows, this surgical option could become a critical component of prenatal care. The hospital's dedication to improving patient outcomes is evident in this historic accomplishment, offering new hope to families facing the challenges of this birth defect.