More Spina Bifida Information
Spina Bifida Definition
Definition
Spina bifida is a type of birth defect. This type is called a neural tube defect. In spina bifida, a baby's spine does not close completely during early pregnancy. It can begin to develop in a fetus before the mother even knows she is pregnant. In some cases, structures that should be in the spinal canal can slip out. The structures affected involved may include:
- Membranes that surrounds the spinal cord
- Nerve roots that connect nerves to the spinal cord
- Spinal cord
- Vertebra (back bones) may be deformed
Spina Bifida
There are three kinds of spina bifida:
Occulta
This is the least severe form and can have:
- No symptoms
- Small defect in one or more vertebrae
- Spinal cord and nerves are normal
- Usually no complications
Meningocele
In this case the membranes poke through an open part of the spine. This forms a cyst. Spinal fluid can leak out. This type can be treated.
Myelomeningocele
This is the most severe form of spina bifida. In this case, the cyst contains membrane, nerve roots, and sometimes the spinal cord. This type can result in severe problems such as:
- Paralysis and incontinence of bowel and bladder may occur—frequently not cured by surgery
- Hydrocephalus. —a build up of fluids in the brain that increase pressure on the brain
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