Treatments
Spina bifida will be treated on depending how severe the case is. Many cases will require surgery to put the spinal cord membranes back in to place and to close the vertebrae. In severe cases, surgery will need to be performed within 24-48 hours after birth. It is critical that the symptoms are detected early after the birth. Performing surgery can help minimize the risk of infection that's associated with exposed nerves. A neurosurgeon will place the spinal cord back inside the body and surround it with muscle and skin to protect it from additional trauma.
Spina bifida can be detected during the pregnancy and prenatal surgery can be performed. The pregnant mother's uterus is opened to repair the baby's spinal cord. It is advantageous to do this rather than wait until the baby is born because nerve function severely in babies with spina bifida severely worsens after birth. Children who have received fetal surgery are less likely to require shunts or walking devices. The operation does involve a large amount of risk and increases chances of a premature delivery.
Altered spinal cords can cause loss of muscle function to the legs, bowel, or bladder. Surgery can help limit the degree of disability and may restore some function. Babies with myelomeningocele may start exercises early to prepare their legs for walking with braces when they become of age.
Spina bifida can be detected during the pregnancy and prenatal surgery can be performed. The pregnant mother's uterus is opened to repair the baby's spinal cord. It is advantageous to do this rather than wait until the baby is born because nerve function severely in babies with spina bifida severely worsens after birth. Children who have received fetal surgery are less likely to require shunts or walking devices. The operation does involve a large amount of risk and increases chances of a premature delivery.
Altered spinal cords can cause loss of muscle function to the legs, bowel, or bladder. Surgery can help limit the degree of disability and may restore some function. Babies with myelomeningocele may start exercises early to prepare their legs for walking with braces when they become of age.