Meningomyelocele, also commonly known as myelomeningocele, is the most serious form of spina bifida. Spina bifida is a birth defect in which the spinal canal and the backbone don’t close before the baby is born. Check out this video to know more about Meningomyelocele!
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2. Meningomyelocele, also commonly known as
myelomeningocele, is a type of spina bifida. Spina bifida is
a birth defect in which the spinal canal and the backbone
don’t close before the baby is born. This type of birth
defect is also called a neural tube defect. A
myelomeningocele is the most serious form of spina bifida.
Meningomyelocele
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4. In Babies with Myelomeningocele
The bones of the spine (vertebrae) do not form the
normal way.
A small sac extends through an opening in the spine. A
membrane covers the sac.
The sac holds cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and tissues that
protect the spinal cord (meninges).
The sac may also contain parts of the spinal cord and
nerves.
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5. Symptoms
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Problems moving parts of the body below the opening
in the back.
Lack of sensation in their legs and feet.
Poor or no bowel and bladder control.
Twisted or abnormal legs and feet; for example,
clubfoot
Too much cerebrospinal fluid in the head.
Learning differences or delayed milestone
6. Causes
The exact cause is unknown, but
a lack of folic acid, exposure to
viruses, exposure to radiation,
and/or genetics are suspected.
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7. Diagnosis
Ultrasound
Amniocentesis
Your doctor may find the condition before your baby is born.
Pregnant women may have a blood test called the Quadruple
Screen to check for signs of certain conditions. If the test
shows you have high levels of a protein (maternal alpha
fetoprotein, AFP) in your blood, your developing baby might
have Spina bifida. You may have other tests to make sure of
the diagnosis. These include:
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8. As children born with a myelomeningocele
grow, they most likely will need treatment
such as medicines and physical therapy.
Some may need aids like braces, crutches
or wheelchairs. Soon after birth, however,
treatment for your baby is Surgery.
Treatment
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9. HEADING1-A
Surgery for Myelomeningocele
Once the baby is diagnosed with Myelomeningocele, the
doctor will most likely schedule surgery as soon as possible.
An early surgery may prevent infection, swelling, and further
damage to the spinal cord.
First, the neurosurgeon closes the covering around the spinal
cord (dura mater). Then the muscles around the spinal cord
are closed. Finally, they close the skin over the open area.
If your child has hydrocephalus, they may need to have a
shunt inserted. The shunt drains extra liquid from around the
brain and reduces pressure.
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