Spina Bifida is the most common birth defect in the US. It occurs when the spinal column does not close completely around the spinal cord. It affects about 1,500 babies each year. There are three types:
Spina Bifida Occulta
This is the most common type. It happens when the spinal column doesn’t close all the way, which causes a gap between the bones that cover the spinal cord and its covering.
Meningocele
This type happens when the spinal column doesn’t close all the way and the membrane that covers the spinal cord bulges out.
Myelomeningocele
This is the most serious type of spina bifida. It happens when the spinal column doesn’t close all the way and part of the covering of the spinal cord and nerve roots with or without the spinal cord bulges out.
Symptoms of spina bifida
- Problems getting around their environment
- Problems controlling their bladder or bowel
- Intellectual disabilities
- Problems with sensation
Prognosis of spina bifida
The prognosis of a child born with spina bifida is dependent on the involvement of the spinal cord and nerve roots and is determined as a child starts to develop skills like sitting and standing. Other medical problems associated with spina bifida, such as hydrocephalus, chiari malformation and tethered cord, can impact function as well. Most children will require some form of assistance or modification in order to function in their daily lives
Treatments for spina bifida
Initial surgical intervention for correction is determined by a Neurosurgeon at the time of identification. Depending on a child’s function, they may also benefit from the following treatments:
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
- Orthotics
- Equipment
- Dietary counseling
- Urology
- Rehabilitation medicine