Spina Bifida

Spina bifida is a condition that affects the spine and is usually apparent at birth. It is a type of neural tube defect (NTD).

Spina bifida can happen anywhere along the spine if the neural tube does not close all the way. When the neural tube doesn’t close all the way, the backbone that protects the spinal cord doesn’t form and close as it should. This often results in damage to the spinal cord and nerves. - The CDC

Deep Dive into Spina Bifida

EVIDENCE-BASED INFORMATION

About Spina Bifida

Spina bifida might cause physical and intellectual disabilities that range from mild to severe. The severity depends on:

The size and location of the opening in the spine.
Whether part of the spinal cord and nerves are affected.

For more information visit the CDC webpage.

Maryland Treatment Center

Before choosing a treatment strategy, The Johns Hopkins Center for Fetal Therapy counsels their patients on all options available to them for the management of spina bifida, from prenatal surgery to postnatal management. They work collaboratively with their patients to create a care plan that works best for mother, child and family. Visit the Johns Hopkins Center for Fetal Therapy webpage for more information.