Spina bifida repair
Key points
- A meningocele is a protrusion of cerebrospinal fluid and meninges (covering layers of the spinal cord and brain) into the tissues beneath the skin.
- Surgery is recommended if a meningocele or meningomyelocele are present.
- The long-term results depend on the initial condition of the spinal cord and nerves.
- Patients usually spend about 2 weeks in the hospital after surgery.
Alternative names
Meningocele repair; Myelomeningocele repair; Myelomeningocele closure
Definition
A meningocele is a protrusion of cerebrospinal fluid and meninges (covering layers of the spinal cord and brain) into the tissues beneath the skin. Meningocele repair is a surgical procedure to drain the cerebrospinal fluid and repair and close birth defects of the spine and spinal membranes. It is used to treat the conditions listed below:
- Spina bifida: a birth defect which involves an abnormal opening of the spinal area.
- Spina bifida occulta: the congenital absence of spinal bones with no exposure of the internal structures such as meninges or neural tissue.
- Meningocele: a congenital defect in the bony structures with distension (swelling) of the meninges, but no abnormality of neural tissue.
- Myelomeningocele: a congenital defect in the bones of the spine with distention of the meninges and structural or functional abnormality of the spinal cord or nerve roots.
Description Surgery is usually done within 24 hours after birth. While the baby is anesthetized, an incision is made in the sac around the spinal cord, and excess fluid is drained off. The spinal cord is then covered with the membranes (meninges). The skin is closed over the meninges, spinal cord, and nerves.
Indications
Surgery is recommended if a meningocele or meningomyelocele are present.
Risks
Risks for any anesthesia include the following:
- Reactions to medications
- Problems breathing
Risks for any surgery include the following:
- Bleeding
- Infection
Additional risks include the following:
- Excessive fluid and pressure in the brain (hydrocephalus)
- Infection or inflammation of the spinal cord (Meningitis)
- Paralysis, weakness or sensory changes related to loss of nerve function
- Increased chance of developing Urinary tract infections
Expectations after surgery
Written and revised by
Gerald Hurowitz, M.D.
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