Introduction
Spina bifida is a birth defect that occurs when the spine and spinal cord do not form properly. It is the most common neural tube defect in the United States, affecting about 1,500 babies each year. There are three main types of spina bifida: meningocele, myelomeningocele, and lipomyelomeningocele. Meningocele is the least severe form, and only affects the meninges (the protective covering around the spinal cord). Myelomeningocele is more severe, and includes a sac-like protrusion of the spinal cord and meninges through an opening in the spine. Lipomyelomeningocele is also a severe form, and includes both a fatty tumor and a myelomeningocele. Most babies with spina bifida will have some type of disability, such as paralysis of the legs, urinary and bowel incontinence, hydrocephalus (build-up of fluid in the brain), and scoliosis (curvature of the spine). There is no cure for spina bifida, but treatment can improve quality of life and folic acid is important prevent measure. Surgery to close the opening in the spine is often recommended soon after birth or during the pregnancy, and may be followed by physical therapy, medications, and other treatments. Fortunately, with proper medical care, many children with spina bifida can lead active and productive lives. Twenty-year follow-up studies of children with spina bifida show that they enter college in the same proportion as the general population and many are actively employed. With recent advancements in medical care for these children, their outlook continues to improve. Looking for the best spina bifida treatment in Guntur, look no further than Dr. Raos hospital or Dr. Rao, the best neurosurgeon for spina bifida. 📲@9010056444.
risk factors
There are many different factors that can contribute to an individual developing spina bifida, and it is often difficult to determine exactly what causes the condition. However, there are certain risk factors that have been identified which may increase an individual’s chances of developing spina bifida.
These include:
– A family history of spina bifida or other neural tube defects
– Exposure to certain environmental toxins or chemicals, such as those used in pesticides
– Maternal diabetes
– Obesity
– Use of certain medications during pregnancy, such as valproic acid
types
There are four main types of spina bifida: 1. Spina bifida occulta: This is the mildest form of the condition, and is often not diagnosed until adulthood. The spinal cord and nerves are usually normal, although there may be some malformation of the bones of the spine. 2. Meningocele: This form of spina bifida results in a sac-like protrusion of the meninges (the membranes that surround the spinal cord) through a defect in the vertebrae. The spinal cord and nerves are usually not affected. 3. Myelomeningocele: This is the most severe form of spina bifida, and is characterized by a sac-like protrusion of the meninges and spinal cord through a defect in the vertebrae. This can result in paralysis and loss of sensation below the level of the lesion. 4. Lipomyelomeningocele: This rare form of spina bifida is characterized by a fatty mass attached to the spinal cord, which may or may not be covered by a thin layer of skin.
symptoms
The most common symptom of spina bifida is a small lump or bulge on the back, usually at the level of the lower spine. This bulge may be covered by skin or it may be open and covered by a thin membrane. Other symptoms may include:
-Weakness or paralysis of the legs
-Loss of sensation in the legs
-Urinary incontinence or difficulty urinating
-Constipation
-Abnormalities in the structure of the spine
diagnosis
- Maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein test (Physican may order follow-up tests for confirmation including amniocentesis)
- 20-week ultrasound
- Infant ultrasound
- Fetal MRI
A diagnosis of spina bifida or meningocele can be made prenatally by fetal ultrasound, which may show evidence of a mass in the lumbosacral region, hydrocephalus, or both. After birth, the diagnosis is typically made by physical examination, which may reveal a sac-like protrusion from the spinal column, an absence of skin over the lesion, and/or neurological deficits. In some cases, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used to further evaluate the extent of the lesion and associated abnormalities. A biopsy of the lesion is generally not necessary for diagnosis but may be performed to rule out other conditions.
treatment
Prenatal or Fetal surgery
Infant surgery
There are a number of different treatment options available for those with spina bifida, depending on the severity of the condition. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to close the opening in the spine and prevent further damage to the spinal cord. In other cases, treatment may focus on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. For example, people with spina bifida may need to take medication to control seizures or pain. They may also need physical therapy to help them improve their mobility and strength. In some cases, people with spina bifida may need to use a wheelchair or other assistive devices. The goal of treatment is to improve quality of life and help people with spina bifida live as independently as possible.
Conclusion
In conclusion, spina bifida is a birth defect that can cause many different problems. There are different types of spina bifida, and the severity of the condition can vary from person to person. There are many risk factors for spina bifida, and it is important to be aware of them. If you think you or your child may have spina bifida, it is important to see a doctor so that you can get the proper diagnosis and treatment. Fortunately, with proper medical care, many children with spina bifida can lead active and productive lives. Twenty-year follow-up studies of children with spina bifida show that they enter college in the same proportion as the general population and many are actively employed. With recent advancements in medical care for these children, their outlook continues to improve. Looking for the best spina bifida treatment in Guntur, look no further than Dr. Raos hospital or Dr. Rao, the best neurosurgeon for spina bifida. 📲@9010056444.