Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) has successfully conducted Malaysia’s first intrauterine (fetal) surgery to repair spina bifida, a congenital spinal defect. This pioneering procedure took place on 22 September 2025, marking a significant achievement in the nation’s medical history and advancing prenatal surgical care.
Image credit: Dr Sim Kui Hian (Facebook)
A medical breakthrough at Sarawak General Hospital
Spina bifida, medically known as myelomeningocele, is a complex condition where an open spinal defect exposes the spinal cord. This condition can lead to severe neurological impairments, walking disabilities, and hydrocephalus. The intrauterine surgery, typically carried out between 19 and 26 weeks of pregnancy, aims to repair this defect before birth, improving the neurological outcomes and reducing complications.
Expertise and international collaboration in complex spina bifida procedure
This multidisciplinary surgical team at SGH was led by:
- Dr Tan Lee Na (Maternal Fetal Medicine specialist)
- Dr Low Peh Hueh (Neurosurgeon)
- Dr Teo Shu Ching (Anaesthesiologist)
- Dr Amita (Neonatologist)
These specialists had previously attended a specialized training in Australia. The surgery was also supervised by experienced Australian experts, including Professor Dr Sailesh Kumar (Maternal Fetal Medicine Specialist), Dr Amelia Jardim (Neurosurgeon), and Dr Aled Hapgood (Anaesthetist).
Additional medical personnel from SGH, including Drs Rafaie Amin, Fara Bashar, Tuscianthi Tata, Ng Pei Meng, Chng Kar Heng, Nasuha, along with dedicated nurses, medical assistants, PPK, and concessionaire company representative, also contributed to the operation’s success and facility readiness.
Successful case highlights national medical progress
The patient, a mother in her third pregnancy at 26 weeks gestation, was referred from Kuantan for this specialized treatment. Both the mother and unborn baby are reported to be recovering well following the surgery, with medical team hopeful for a healthy delivery at full term, approximately 40 weeks.
This successful intrauterine surgery represents a major advancement in Malaysia’s healthcare system, showcasing the country’s ability to perform complex fetal surgeries and highlighting SGH’s commitment to pioneering medical innovations. It also brings new hope to families affected by congenital disorders, demonstrating the progress therapy in the region.
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