Causes of Spina Bifida

CAUSES OF SPINA BIFIDA

Causes of spina bifida. A neural tube defect known as spina bifida develops when the spine and spinal cord of a fetus fail to close correctly in the early stages of pregnancy. The brain and spinal cord are formed during embryonic development via the neural tube. It creates a space in the spine when it fails to close.

CAUSES OF SPINA BIFIDA

The vertebrae, spinal cord, and surrounding nerves may be impacted by this gap. A sac filled with fluid may protrude through the incision in more severe situations. Incorrect formation of the spine and spinal cord can result in spina bifida. One kind of neural tube defect is this one. The structure in a growing embryo that eventually gives rise to the brain, spinal cord, and surrounding tissues of the infant is known as the neural tube.

Types

Meningocele: When the spinal gap opens, a fluid-filled sac forms. It is the least prevalent kind.
Myelomeningocele: When the gap in the spine opens, a fluid-filled sac containing some of the spinal cord and nerves forms. It’s the most grave kind.
Spina bifida occulta: Although there is a little opening in the spine, no fluid-filled sac forms as a result. This is the most prevalent kind of spina bifida occulta.

Symptoms

The kind, size, and location of the gap in your child’s spine will determine the symptoms. They could consist of:

Pain in the back
Problems with the bowels and bladder

weakness in the legs
Loss of feeling or sensation
Your youngster might not exhibit any symptoms if their illness is minor.

Causes

The precise cause is not entirely known. According to experts, the development of the neural tube during the early stages of pregnancy may be hampered by a mix of environmental and hereditary variables. This process can lead to diseases like spina bifida if it doesn’t work out.

Treatment

Operations for spina bifida
The gap in your child’s spine can be closed with a variety of surgical techniques. Pregnancy can be used to treat severe cases, such as myelomeningocele. However, this is typically carried out in the initial days following the birth of your child.

A surgeon will drain any sac that is located outside of your child’s spine, seal the incision, and close the surgical site. Before the procedure, you will meet with your child’s surgeon to discuss what to expect.

Children frequently suffer from a condition called tethered spinal cord, in which the spinal cord is attached to the spinal canal rather than floating freely. This is also treated by surgery.

Prevention

Your chances of having a kid with spina bifida may be decreased if you:

Avoid saunas and hot baths because they can overheat.
Increase your consumption of folic acid.

Control any illnesses, such as diabetes.
Discuss your current pharmaceutical regimen with your healthcare practitioner.

Summary

When you find out your baby has spina bifida, a happy occasion can become tense and uncertain. All of a sudden, you could be overwhelmed with inquiries and unsure of where to start. Your medical staff is aware of how upsetting this news might be. You’re not alone, though. They will support you throughout the entire process to ensure that you and your child receive the care you require.