Conditions & Procedures

Spina Bifida

Spina Bifida is a birth defect that results in the body failing to develop properly around the spine and spinal cord. The damage can vary from severe to mild, each demanding specific treatment and care.

There are various types of Spina Bifida:

Spina Bifida Occulta: This condition results in a small gap between the bones of the spine. The gap may be covered by a tuft of hair or fat deposit and usually does not create a problem for the individual.

Meningocele: Meningocele is a rare form of Spina Bifida in which the protective sheathing around the nerve bundle (called meninges) pushes out through the gap in the spine. This condition is usually treated with surgery.

Myelomeningocele: This type is most commonly referred to as "Spina Bifida" and is a very serious condition in which the development of the vertebrae and spinal cord are compromised during gestation. This results in a gap or open space in the back of a child (often with a bulging sac), which may be covered with skin. This is a very dangerous condition as the child is prone to serious infections due to the exposure of the nerves. Since the spine and nerves have not developed normally, the individual may be paralyzed and unable to use their lower body.

Testing can be done on pregnant mothers to determine whether Spina Bifida is present in their unborn child. However, testing is not always 100% accurate.