What is spinal cord Dysraphism?

Spinal dysraphism is an umbrella term that describes a number of conditions present at birth that affect the spine, spinal cord, or nerve roots. Spine: the bony structure also known as the spinal column. Made up of individual vertebrae (bones), the spine protects the spinal cord.

What is open spinal dysraphism?

Open spinal dysraphism (spina bifida aperta) is characterized by a cleft in the spinal column, with herniation of the meninges (meningocele) or meninges and spinal cord (myelomeningocele) through the defect.

Is spinal dysraphism curable?

Surgical treatment for spinal dysraphism varies by type. However, Spina bifida occulta does not need surgical repair if it causes no symptoms. Presently, there is no cure for Spinal Dysraphism, but there are several treatments available to help manage the disease and prevent complications.

How common is spinal Dysraphism?

Spinal dysraphism affects about 7 out of every 10,000 live births. It is slightly more common in females than males.

What is the difference between meningocele and myelomeningocele?

Meningocele typically causes mild problems, with a sac of fluid present at the gap in the spine. Myelomeningocele, also known as open spina bifida, is the most severe form.

Can you have two spinal cords?

Split spinal cord malformation (SSCM) is a rare form of spinal dysraphism in which a person is born with splitting, or duplication , of the spinal cord. It may be characterized by complete or incomplete division of the spinal cord, resulting in two ‘hemicords.

What is an encephalocele?

Encephalocele is a sac-like protrusion or projection of the brain and the membranes that cover it through an opening in the skull. Encephalocele happens when the neural tube does not close completely during pregnancy.

What causes spinal bifida?

Doctors aren’t certain what causes spina bifida. It’s thought to result from a combination of genetic, nutritional and environmental risk factors, such as a family history of neural tube defects and folate (vitamin B-9) deficiency.

Is spinal dysraphism hereditary?

Spinal dysraphism is not anyone’s fault and it can happen at random. In some cases, spinal dysraphism is hereditary (passed down through families).