Spina Bifida: A Comprehensive Guide to Management and Outcome

Spina bifida is a birth defect that affects the spinal cord. It occurs when the spinal cord does not close all the way during pregnancy. This can cause a wide range of physical and developmental disabilities, depending on the severity of the defect.

Causes of Spina Bifida

The exact cause of spina bifida is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some of the risk factors for spina bifida include:

Spina Bifida: Management and Outcome

by Rahul Jandial

4.8 out of 5

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File size	:	13565 KB
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• Having a family history of spina bifida
• Taking certain medications during pregnancy, such as anti-seizure medications
• Having a low folic acid intake during pregnancy
• Being obese during pregnancy
• Having diabetes during pregnancy

Symptoms of Spina Bifida

The symptoms of spina bifida can vary depending on the severity of the defect. Some of the most common symptoms include:

• A visible opening in the back
• Muscle weakness or paralysis in the legs
• Bowel and bladder problems
• Hydrocephalus (fluid on the brain)
• Learning disabilities
• Seizures
• Scoliosis (curvature of the spine)

Diagnosis of Spina Bifida

Spina bifida is typically diagnosed during pregnancy through a prenatal ultrasound. However, it can also be diagnosed after birth through a physical examination and imaging tests, such as an MRI or CT scan.

Treatment of Spina Bifida

There is no cure for spina bifida, but treatment can help to improve the quality of life for people with this condition. Treatment options may include:

• Surgery to close the opening in the back
• Physical therapy to strengthen the muscles and improve mobility
• Occupational therapy to help with daily activities
• Speech therapy to help with communication
• Educational support to help with learning disabilities
• Medication to manage seizures and other symptoms

Long-Term Outcomes of Spina Bifida

The long-term outcomes of spina bifida can vary depending on the severity of the defect. However, with early diagnosis and treatment, most people with spina bifida can live full and productive lives.

Some of the potential long-term outcomes of spina bifida include:

• Normal life expectancy
• Independence in daily activities
• Employment
• Marriage and family
• Participation in sports and other activities

Spina bifida is a serious birth defect, but with early diagnosis and treatment, most people with this condition can live full and productive lives. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk of having a child with spina bifida.

References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Spina Bifida. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/spinabifida/index.html
2. March of Dimes. (2020). Spina Bifida. Retrieved from https://www.marchofdimes.org/complications/spina-bifida.aspx
3. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2020). Spina Bifida. Retrieved from https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Spina-Bifida-Information-Page

Spina Bifida: Management and Outcome

by Rahul Jandial

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	13565 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Print length	:	554 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE