Presentation - Spina Bifida
Types
1. Myelomeningocele
The spinal canal is open along several vertebrae in the lower or middle back
Part of the spinal cord is pushed through this opening at birth → this results in
a sac on the baby's back
Tissues and nerves are usually exposed → makes the baby prone to dangerous
infections
2. Meningocele
No nerves are affected
The spinal cord isn't in the fluid sac
3. Spinal Bifida Occulta
Occulta means hidden
Mildest and most common type
Results in a small separation or gap in one or more vertebrae
Around 5 babies per day
Symptoms
Myelomeningocele and meningocele both cause bladder and bowel dysfunction and
loss of movement in the legs
Spinal Bifida Occulta: spinal nerves aren't involved, sometimes you can see symptoms
on the newborn's skin above the small gap in the spine (for example a small dimple or
a birthmark)
Treatment
Surgery before birth (a type of fetal surgery)
Before the 26th week of pregnancy
Open the mother's stomach and her uterus
The unborn baby's spinal cord is repaired
Surgeon closes the uterus and stomach
Less invasive way: fetoscopy → instruments are inserted into the uterus
through tiny ports to perform the surgery
Hydrocephalus: neurological disorder often associated with development disorders
such as spina bifida
Extra fluid in and around the brain
Surgery to place a ventricular shunt which allows fluid in the brain to drain
into another part of the body
Develop a plan for going to the bathroom, helps them practice independence