• What is Spina Bifida Treatment?
• What is Spina Bifida Occulta?
• What is Spina Bifida Manifesta?
• What Happens During Spina Bifida Surgery?

Spina bifida, also known as a cleft spine, is a birth defect of the spinal column. Infants suffering from spina bifida have a split in the lower encasement of the spine. 

At the Orlando Orthopaedic Center our team of board certified orthopedic surgeons, lead by our pediatric orthopaedic specialists, uses cutting edge technology to treat and repair cases of spina bifida. If you are looking for treatment options for spina bifida, turn to the experts as the Orlando Orthopaedic Center.

Spina bifida develops during gestation as a result of the incomplete development of the embryonic neural tube, causing an opening in the vertebra. The proper method of spina bifida treatment is dependent on the severity of the child’s condition. Each case is classified as either spina bifida occulta or spina bifida manifesta

Spina bifida occulta refers to less severe cases which often require no treatment. Children with this type of spina bifida generally do not suffer from any damage to the spinal cord or any other related health problems.

Refers to more severe cases and is classified by two types:

Meningocele is used to classify cases which involve complications of the meninges, the tiny membranes which are meant to protect the brain and spinal cord. The meninges protrude through the hole in the vertebra forming a sac called a meningocele.

Myelomeningocele is used to describe the most severe cases of spina bifida. In these cases the meninges and the spinal cord protrude through the hole in the vertebra. Infants with myelomeningocele generally suffer from hydrocephalus as well, the buildup of excessive fluid on the brain.

Infants suffering from spina bifida manifesta generally require spina bifida surgery. In cases of meningocele the child undergoes surgery during infancy at which time surgeons place the meninges back in the spinal column and close the opening in the vertebra. Babies suffering from myelomeningocele often require surgery immediately after birth, during which time surgeons push the spine back into the vertebra and close the opening to prevent dangerous infections.

At the Orlando Orthopaedic Center our orthopaedic specialists treat infants suffering from mild to severe cases of spina bifida. We are here to help your child, and your family, through every step of the diagnosis, treatment and recovery process. If you are interested in learning more about spina bifida treatment options, schedule a consultation today.