Spina Bifida

• Spina Bifida


  Failure of the neural tube to close
• Spina Bifida

  DX:

  Amniocentesis - elevated AFP

  • NI: let the mother void

  Prenatal sonogram
• Two types of Spina Bifida

  1. Occulta
  2. Cystica
• Spina Bifida Types

  Occulta

  • Spinal cord remains intact, usually is not visible; meninges not exposed on the skin surface; NO neurological deficits
• Spina Bifida Cystica - with sac

  Meningocele - an external sac that contains meninges and CSF that protrudes through a defect in the vertebral column
• Spina Bifida Cystica - with sac

  Myelomeningocele - contains meninges, CSF, and nerves. With neurological defects
• Spina Bifida

  Prevention: 400 micrograms of Folic Acid per day
• Spina Bifida

  Management:

  • Position - prone or side-lying to prevent trauma to the sac
• Spina Bifida

  Management:

  • Protect with: sterile, moist (NS), nonadherent dressing to maintain the moisture of the sac and contents
• Spina Bifida

  ManagementTx: Laminectomy (surgery) within first 24 hours
• Spina Bifida

  Allergy risk: Latex