Also known as: Open spine
A fetus at 24 weeks gestation with spina bifida requiring fetal surgery on an exteriorized uterus. The central plot involves the mother's severe medical phobia preventing her from consenting to the life-saving procedure.
Also known as: Fear of medical procedures
Teresa has severe phobia of medical procedures stemming from her father's death following surgery when she was 5. This creates the major conflict as she refuses to consent to fetal surgery her baby needs, requiring Arizona to share her own trauma story to help Teresa overcome her fear.
Also known as: Schizoaffective disorder
Alex's mother Helen has chronic schizophrenia that has improved with age and proper medication management. Alex discovers she is now stable, working at a library, and maintaining a strict routine. This revelation drives Alex's emotional arc throughout the episode as he processes his childhood trauma and current feelings about her recovery.
Also known as: Heroin addiction
Betty is going through active detox with severe withdrawal symptoms including vomiting. Amelia supervises her detox at home, describing the withdrawal process and protecting Betty from the 'demon' of her last high. Jo reveals Betty's addiction began when a doctor prescribed opioids.
Also known as: Drug withdrawal
Betty experiences severe withdrawal symptoms during the worst part of detox, with constant vomiting and physical distress requiring IV fluids and close monitoring by Amelia.