Word parts
What it means
It is a neural tube defect that forms in the first weeks of pregnancy. In the mildest form there is only a small gap in the bone. In the most serious form (myelomeningocele) a sac containing nerves and spinal cord pushes out through the back, which can cause leg weakness or paralysis and bladder and bowel problems. Taking folic acid before and early in pregnancy lowers the risk.
For the nurse
Before surgery, keep a newborn with an open sac lying on the stomach and cover the sac with a sterile, moist, non-stick dressing. Children with spina bifida are at high risk of latex allergy, so use latex-free supplies.
At a glance
| Spanish | espina bífida |
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Related terms
spinal cord
The long bundle of nerves that runs down through the backbone and carries messages between the brain and the body.
paralysis
Loss of the ability to move a part of the body, and sometimes loss of feeling in it.
pediatric
Having to do with the care of infants, children and teenagers.