Spina Bifida (Spinal Cord Defect)
Definition
Spina bifida is a neural tube defect that occurs when the vertebrae and/or the spinal cord of the fetus do not develop properly, causing damage to the spinal cord and nervous system.
The damage can vary from an open spinal cord to a missing or misformed vertebrae. Other damage to the central nervous system can also occur, including hydrocephalus, chiari malformations and syringomelia. The defect occurs as the vertebrae and spinal cord are developing in the fetus during the first month.
Symptoms
The symptoms vary as to the level of the condition. In some cases, the spinal cord may protrude through the back and be covered by skin or a thin membrane.
Children with spina bifida may also have hydrocephalus, syringomyelia and chiari malformations. They may suffer physical problems related to the spinal cord including muscle paralysis, bowel and bladder complications, respiratory difficulties and swallowing problems. They can have secondary conditions such as learning problems, latex allergies, tendinitis, obesity, skin breakdown, gastrointestinal disorders, depression and social issues.
Treatment
Often spina bifida is treated medically and surgically. Infants may require immediate surgery to close the back and spinal cord. Hydrocephalus may need to be treated immediately with a shunt system.
They may need multiple surgeries to help with spinal, foot or leg problems, techniques to control bladder and bowel functions and braces and other equipment to help with movement.
Because many different parts of the body and central nervous system are involved, many physicians, therapists and others may be part of the treatment.
Spinal Cord
Copyright: Wake Forest University School of Medicine
and North Carolina Baptist Hospital. All rights reserved.
Medical Center Boulevard
Winston-Salem, NC 27157
(336) 716-2011