| What is spina bifida?
Spina bifida occurs when the spinal cord fails to close completely, often leaving spinal nerves exposed. Lacking protection, the nerves suffer damage that can cause the child lifelong physical disability, including lower-body paralysis. There may be bowel and bladder complications. What is hydrocephalus? Over 80 per cent of children born with spina bifida also have hydrocephalus at birth or develop it later. Hydrocephalus is an excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid around the brain which, if left untreated, causes the skull to swell and results in brain damage. How can hydrocephalus be treated? Hydrocephalus can usually be controlled by the insertion of a “shunt” to direct the overflow fluid elsewhere in the body for absorption. How common is spina bifida? According to The Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Association of Canada (SBHAC), the most serious form of spina bifida (myelomeningocele) occurs at a rate of one in 750 live births in Canada. The least serious (occulta) occurs in one in four live births. Can spina bifida be prevented? Folic acid, a “B” vitamin, when taken prior to and during the initial months of pregnancy, can reduce the risk of spina bifida by more than 75 per cent. However, other factors can play a role in the failure of the spinal cord to form properly. Is there a cure for spina bifida? After birth, damage to the spinal cord is permanent and irreversible. In 1998, however, surgeons in Philadelphia were able to repair a spinal defect in an unborn child before irreparable nerve damage occurred. Although questions remain about the functioning of the child’s bladder and kidneys, since birth he appears to be developing normally, with near full use of his legs. Can the SBHAC provide local contacts? Yes. For contacts and further information on spina bifida and hydrocephalus call 1-800-565-9488 or e-mail spinab@mts.net. SBHAC also has a web site, at www.sbhac.ca. |
