Balloon in the womb: new hope for babies with underdeveloped lungs?

NCT ID NCT05962346

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This pilot study tests a procedure called FETO, where a tiny balloon is placed in the fetus's windpipe to encourage lung growth. It is for pregnancies where the baby has severe left congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) and very small lungs. The study will enroll 20 participants to see if the balloon can be safely placed and removed, and to measure lung growth and survival after birth.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

BALT GOLDBALL 2 detachable latex balloon

What this could lead to

If successful, this procedure could improve lung development in fetuses with severe CDH, potentially increasing survival after birth.

What could go wrong

This is a small pilot trial (20 participants) focused on safety and technical success, not yet proven to improve outcomes. Risks include preterm labor, membrane rupture, and other maternal complications.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for CONGENITAL DIAPHRAGMATIC HERNIA are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

congenital diaphragmatic hernia

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Mayo Clinic Minnesota

    RECRUITING

    Rochester, Minnesota, 55905, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-••••