Babies Born With Spina Bifida

Spinal hernia is a congenital malformation that affects the baby’s spine. It develops during pregnancy when the spinal formation does not close properly around the spinal cord and nerves, leaving an opening that exposes them.

Symptoms of spinal cord hernia

As a malformation of the spine, spinal cord hernia can cause both physical and intellectual disabilities. The symptoms vary as there are several types of spina bifida. They will mainly depend on:

• The size of the opening
• Which part of the spine is affected – the higher up the spine, the more serious the consequences
• Whether the nerves and spinal cord are affected or not

According to these criteria, there are of spinal cord hernia : open spinal cord, which is divided into myelomeningocele; meningocele; and occult spinal cord.

Meningocele

Meningocele affects the brain, the membranes that cover and protect the brain and spinal cord. When they protrude through the opening formed in the spine, sacs filled with fluid (meningocele) are created.

Children with this condition may suffer from various health problems depending on the damage to the nerves around the spine.

For example, they may have muscle paralysis to varying degrees or learning difficulties, such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

Myelomeningocele

When we talk about spinal cord hernia, we usually refer to myelomeningocele. It is the most severe variation of this deformity and causes disabilities ranging from moderate to severe, including possible loss of movement or sensitivity in the legs.

It occurs when the oral mucosa and the lower end of the spinal cord protrude through the opening of the spine and form sacs filled with fluid. These sacs, which are external, can rupture during childbirth and expose the spinal cord and nerves.

In addition to bone or muscle problems, it is also common for babies with this malformation to have hydrocephalus, a fluid collection in or around the brain.

Neural tube defects

This is the mildest form of spina bifida and can go unnoticed. As the name suggests, the malformation in this variation of the syndrome is “hidden” under the skin.

Even if it is hidden, there may be food marks or a dimple on the skin around the opening. Inside, the medulla can be attached to the tissue instead of freely so that the nerves are not affected.

The most babies with neural tube defects has no long-term problems. Moreover, it is seen more often later in childhood or even as an adult.

What causes spina bifida?

The causes of spina bifida are unknown. It is necessary to examine the factors that interfere with the development of this malformation, such as genetics or environment.

But  it is with certainty that it is related to low levels of folic acid.

Spinal cord hernia appears in the first weeks of pregnancy. It is often formed before the expectant mother even knows she is pregnant.

Taking folic acid during pregnancy (400 micrograms daily) reduces the risk of developing it. However, this does not guarantee a healthy pregnancy.

Other tips that can be followed to prevent this deformity are:

• Contact your doctor for the best treatment to follow. Just as no two people are alike, no two pregnancies are the same. It is better to follow a personal plan that meets the needs of mother and child.
• Learn about the components of the drugs, vitamins and supplements that are taken. During pregnancy, the body responds differently to some medication.
• Check body temperature. High fever can increase the chances of your baby developing this.

Treatment

Treatment of spina bifida varies according to its severity. Depending on which systems it affects, children will need support from different specialists in the long term.

This includes not only doctors but also therapists, social workers and associations that provide support and understanding.

In infants with spina spinal cord hernia, treatment may not be needed. If the spinal cord is anchored, surgery will be necessary to separate it from the tissue.

After surgery, it usually does not cause problems for babies, although it is possible that it will be anchored again.

Children with meningocele need surgery in the first months of life. The operation places meninges in the body and closes the opening.

The process is similar to myelomeningocele: the baby needs surgery, but it happens between the first and second day after birth.

If detected in the early stages of pregnancy, surgery may take place in week 25 to correct the malformation.

It will also be necessary to work on hydrocephalus if the child suffers from this.