Spina bifida (SB) is a congenital malformation that occurs when the spine fails to close properly during early fetal development, resulting in incomplete formation of the vertebral arch and exposure of the spinal cord to the amniotic environment. This exposure can cause progressive neurological damage before birth and lead to lifelong motor, sensory, and urological impairments.

Prenatal surgical repair, in which the defect is covered with soft tissue to prevent contact between the spinal cord and amniotic fluid, has significantly improved clinical outcomes. However, this soft tissue coverage lacks sufficient mechanical stability and may not fully protect from spinal deformities and chronic back problems later in life.

This project aims to develop a more stable and durable solution by engineering a cartilage graft that replicates the native vertebral structure. Using advanced 3D printing technologies and stem cells derived from amniotic fluid, we aim to create a mechanically stable and biologically compatible construct to enhance fetal spinal repair and improve long-term patient outcomes.