Spina bifida (meningocele / myelmomeningocele)
What is Spina Bifida?
Spina bifida (meningocele / myelmomeningocele) is a birth defect which can develop during early pregnancy. It is characterized by an opening of the spine over the centre tube of nerves (spinal cord). The soft, unprotected area at the back of the child only covered by a thin membrane may bulge and leak cerebrospinal fluid from the spinal cord and the brain.
Muscle weakness, loss of feeling or paralysis of the feet, dislocation of the hip, development of club foot, muscle spasms and poor urine and bowel control, hydrocephalus and brain damage are problems that occur with spina bifida. Secondary problems when the child gets older are curving of the spine, urinal infections, kidney damage, pressure sores and/or foot injuries due to the absence of feeling in the feet.
Spina bifida is one of the most common birth defects worldwide with an average birth incidence of one or two out of 1000 children.
What causes Spina Bifida?
The exact cause of spina bifida is unknown. It is suspected that genetic, nutritional and environmental factors play a role. Research indicates that insufficient intake of folic acid in the mother?s diet is a key factor in causing spina bifida.
What cures Spina Bifida?
There is no cure for spina bifida. Surgery however reduces the risk of further problems but does not recover lost functions.
Surgery: When a child is just a few weeks old, in a surgical procedure, the bag of nerves (spinal cord) coming from the opening of the spine, is covered by skin to prevent injury and brain infection entering the body through the spinal opening.
Appliances: Adaptive aids like corner chairs, carts, standing frames, braces, crutches and wheel chairs support children with spina bifida through all developmental stages.
In 2006, CCBRT provided medical and rehabilitative services for 250 children with spina bifida and hydrocephalus.
What prevents Spina Bifida?
There is no single cause of spina bifida nor any known way to prevent it entirely. However, dietary supplementation with folic acid has been shown to be helpful in preventing spina bifida
