Liliana Bazn Cabanillas

Myelomeningocele
Myelomeningocele is a

birth defect in which the backbone and spinal canal do not close before birth.

Myelomeningocele may affect as many as 1

out of every 800 infants.

Myelomeningocele
It is the most common type of spina bifida.

Spina bifida refers to any birth defect involving incomplete closure of the spine.

Myelomeningocele
Normally, during the

first month of a pregnancy, the two sides of the spine join together to cover the spinal cord, spinal nerves and meninges (the tissues covering the spinal cord).

Myelomeningocele
A portion of the spinal

cord protrudes and is not covered by skin.

The defect can occur

anywhere along the spinal column.

Other congenital

disorders or birth defects may also be present in a child with myelomeningocele..

Hydrocephalus (90%)

Causes

The cause of myelomeningocele is unknown.

However, low levels of folic acid in a woman's body before and during early pregnancy is thought to play a part in this type of birth defect.

The vitamin folic acid (or folate) is important for brain and spinal cord development.

Symptoms
Loss of bladder or bowel control
Partial or complete lack of sensation

Partial or complete paralysis of the legs

Weakness of the hips, legs.

Exams and Tests

Before the birth
Prenatal screening can help diagnose this condition.

During the second trimester, pregnant women can have a blood test called THE QUADRUPLE SCREEN.

Myelomeningocele

screens for:

Down syndrome

Other congenital diseases

Exams and Tests

Quadruple screen test : positive

Further testing is needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Pregnancy ultrasound Amniocentesis

Exams and Tests

After birth:
Tests done on the baby after birth may include:

Ultrasound

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the spinal area. Computed tomography (CT)

x-rays

Treatment
Surgery

is usually recommended at an early age.

It should be closed within

the first 48 hours to preserve the neural tissue and prevent infection.

Antibiotics may be used to treat or prevent infections

such as meningitis or urinary tract infections.

Treatment
Before

surgery, the infant must be handled carefully to reduce damage to the exposed spinal cord.

Special care and positioning, protective devices, changes in the methods of handling, feeding, and bathing

Treatment
Most children will require lifelong treatment for problems

that result from damage to the spinal cord.

Gentle downward pressure over the bladder may help drain the bladder

This includes:
Orthopedic or physical therapy

Neurological losses are treated according to the type and severity of function loss.

Thank you