Fetal bony pelvis in the bladder exstrophy complex: normal potential for growth?

Objectives: To provide the first look at the bony histologic features of fetuses with the exstrophy complex, specifically evaluating the endochondral ossification, stage of development, and microscopic potential for normal growth.

Methods: Three fetuses between 28 and 30 weeks of gestation, one with classic bladder exstrophy, one with cloacal exstrophy, and one control, were obtained from France. The bony pelves were dissected and preserved in formalin, and multiple representative sections were sliced from all pelvic areas: pubis, ischium, ilium, and sacrum.