Spina Bifida: The Facts

Spina bifida is a birth defect that involves the incomplete development of the spinal cord or its coverings. The term spina bifida comes from Latin and literally means "split" or "open" spine. Spina bifida occurs at the end of the first month of pregnancy when the two sides of the embryo's spine fail to join together, leaving an open area. In some cases, the spinal cord or other membranes may push through this opening in the back. The condition usually is detected before a baby is born and treated right away. There are 2 different types of Spina Bifida Spina Bifida Occulta is the mildest form of SB. This means that the defect is covered by skin and not open. Children have little to no health effects with this case. Spinia Bifida Manifesta has to subs. Meningocele involves the meninges, the membranes responsible for covering and protecting the brain and spinal cord. If the meninges push through the hole in the vertebrae (the small, ring-like bones that make up the spinal column), the sac is called a meningocele. (mayoclinic.com) - Myelomeningocele is the most severe form of spina bifida. It occurs when the meninges push through the hole in the back, and the spinal cord pushes though. Most babies who are born with this type of spina bifida also have hydrocephalus, an accumulation of fluid in and around the brain. Because of the abnormal development of and damage to the spinal cord, a child with myelomeningocele typically has some paralysis. The degree of paralysis largely depends on where the opening occurs in the spine. The higher the opening is on the back, the more severe the paralysis tends to be. (Mayoclinic.com)

Spina Bifida
Alexandria Fern

For more information visit http://www.spinabifidaassociation.org

sdThere are many symptoms of Spinia Bifida ranging from severe to mild depending on the type. An abnormal tuft of hair A collection of fat A small dimple or a birthmark Skin discoloration Muscle weakness, sometimes involving paralysis Bowel and bladder problems Seizures, especially if the child requires a shunt Orthopedic problems such as deformed feet, uneven hips and a curved spine (scoliosis)

Who it affects and what are the causes?

Tratments

This condition effects children from inside the womb. It seems to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. One correlation seem to be folic acid deficiency Hispanics and whites seem to be more susceptible.

Spina Bifida is tricky to treat. One option is surgery post birth, or prenatal surgery. The goal is to try to close the spine back up. Most cases are still left disabled and severe cases are usually crutch bound. In babies with myelomeningocele, irreparable nerve damage has already occurred, and ongoing care from a multidisciplinary team of surgeons, physicians and therapists is usually needed. Paralysis and bladder and bowel problems often remain, and treatment for these conditions typically begins soon after birth. Babies with myelomeningocele may also start exercises that will prepare their legs for walking with braces or crutches when they're older.

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