spina bifida

Congenital defect in which part of the spinal cord and its membranes are exposed, due to incomplete development of the spine (vertebral column). It is a neural tube defect.

Spina bifida, usually present in the lower back, varies in severity. The most seriously affected babies may be paralysed below the waist. There is also a risk of mental retardation and death from hydrocephalus, which is often associated. Surgery is performed to close the spinal lesion shortly after birth, but this does not usually cure the disabilities caused by the condition. Spina bifida can be diagnosed prenatally.

In July 2001, it was reported that incidence of spina bifida in the USA was 31 per 100,000 live births. This marked a 19% decrease since the fortification of grain products with folic acid became compulsory in 1998.