BABY PIPER-KOHL’S Our tiny ever op on

A BABY who had pioneering spine surgery while in the womb has been born healthy.

Georgia Axford and Tyler Kelly were told their daughter had spina bifida – a gap in the spine – at a 20-week scan.

The condition causes weakness or paralysis in the lower limbs, leaving sufferers dependent on supports or crutches. In severe cases they can be wheelchair-bound.

Medics told the couple of a new treatment available in Germany. But it had never been performed before and had to be done before the baby reached 26 weeks.

The young couple took out a £9,000 loan to pay for the operation in June.

A month later, baby Piper-Kohl – partly named in honour of the man who carried out the surgery – was born.

At 30 weeks and four days, she was premature but entirely healthy.

Proud mum Georgia, 19, said: “She was covered in wires when she was first born but it was just the best feeling to see her.

“You could see the mark on her spine. It makes you think how incredible the procedure was.

“It was a bit scary at the time and was a lot of money but it was absolutely worth it.

“I’m just so happy she’s here. They won’t know for certain the operation has been a complete