Spina bifida is a congenital condition in which the spinal cord does not develop properly, leaving part of it exposed. This can cause lifelong health challenges, including paralysis, difficulty walking, and issues with bladder and bowel control. Current treatments involve surgery during pregnancy to close the spinal opening, which can reduce some complications but often does not prevent all neurological problems.

In the trial, six pregnant women with fetuses diagnosed with spina bifida underwent standard fetal surgery plus an additional step where surgeons applied cells from the placenta—called placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells (PMSCs)—directly onto the exposed spinal cord during the surgery. These cells are known for their ability to reduce inflammation, promote healing, and protect nerve tissue.