Spina Bifida

This type of spina bifida is also known as “hidden” spina bifida and is the mildest form. Instead of an opening or sac on the baby’s back, there is a small, unseen gap in the spine. The spinal cord and nerves usually develop normally, which means that many people are not diagnosed with spina bifida occulta until late childhood or early adulthood. Surgery is often not required.

Myelomeningocele is the most serious type of spina bifida. With this type, the backbone and spinal canal do not fully close before birth, resulting in a baby being born with a sac of fluid on their back that contains a damaged part of the spinal cord and nerves. Surgery is required to repair it.

With meningocele, a baby is born with a sac on their back that contains some of the protective membranes that form around the spinal cord. The spinal cord itself usually develops normally. Many babies born with meningocele spina bifida do not experience symptoms or disabilities. Surgery is required to repair it.

Infants with this condition may be born with a sacral dimple, a tuft of hair, birth mark, or extra fat near the base of their spine. These signs on the skin can indicate a concern about the development of the spinal cord and nerve roots. Surgery is typically required to repair it.

If your child is born with a type of spina bifida that has pushed the spinal cord and nerves out of the spine, it is necessary for your baby to have surgery within 48 hours of birth to help avoid any serious risk of infection. After birth, your provider will immediately consult specialists in neurology to assess your child for surgery. While this can repair the defect, it does not reverse any nerve damage that may have occurred.

If your child’s spina bifida causes bone development issues such as clubfoot, orthopedic surgery or casting may be required for treatment.

Some children with spina bifida develop a condition called hydrocephalus (excessive fluid on the brain). This will require surgery to implant a shunt into the brain that will drain excess fluid.

Spina bifida can cause pain, weakness, and deformity in the lower body. Physical therapy can help prevent or delay further impairment, helping someone with spina bifida become or remain independent.

Children with limited mobility will need to use a wheelchair or walking aids such as braces or splints.

Many children with spina bifida have issues controlling their bladder and require treatment. These may include antibiotics or other medications, urinary catheters, or bladder surgery.

Bowel problems are common for children with spina bifida. Treatment for these could include laxatives, suppositories, enemas or anal irrigation, or a colostomy.

Spina bifida can affect cognitive function. Thus, regular developmental and cognitive assessment are important for early identification of developmental or cognitive delays and to facilitate access to appropriate interventions including academic accommodations. Individuals with spina bifida can experience increased symptoms of mood and anxiety disorders, warranting regular psychosocial screening and referral to psychological therapy was needed.