Spina Bifida
Spina bifida is a birth defect in which the spinal column does not fully form.
Types of Spina Bifida
There are three types of spina bifida: myelomeningocele, meningoceles, and spina bifida occulta.
- Myelomeningocele: a form of spina bifida in which the spinal cord and meninges (the membranes covering the spinal cord) protrude out of the infant’s back
- Meningoceles: a form of spina bifida in which the meninges protrude out of the infant’s back but the spinal cord remains in place
- Spina bifida occulta: a form of spina bifida in which the spinal cord and meninges remain in place and are covered by the skin
The cause of spina bifida is unknown. However, experts have theorized that a virus or folic acid deficiency may be to blame.
Symptoms of Spina Bifida
Spina bifida is characterized by dimpling of the sacrum, a tuft of hair at the sacral area, and/or the protrusion of a sac-like structure from the middle to lower back. The symptoms of spina bifida include:
- Weakness in the feet, legs, or hips
- Partial or complete paralysis of the lower body
- Lack of bladder control
- Lack of bowel control
In addition to the symptoms mentioned above, the exposure of the spinal cord can lead to spinal infections such as meningitis and a condition known as hydrocephalus, in which the fluid of the brain does not circulate properly between the brain and the spinal cord.
Spina Bifida Treatment
The main goals of spina bifida treatment are to reduce neurological damage caused by the defect and to prevent infection. Surgical treatment is usually recommended at an early age, if not while the infant is still in utero. Surgical treatments that may occur later include surgical shunting (a procedure that provides for proper circulation of cerebrospinal fluid) for treatment of hydrocephalus. In addition to surgery, patients are usually put on antibiotics in order to ward off infections including meningitis and urinary tract infections.
Consult an Attorney
If your child suffers from spina bifida, contact a spina bifida attorney for more information.