Spina Bifida

What Is Spina Bifida?

Spina bifida, also called myelodysplasia, is a birth defect in which there is abnormal development of the back bones, spinal cord, surrounding nerves, and the fluid-filled sac that surrounds the spinal cord.

This neurological condition can cause a portion of the spinal cord and the surrounding structures to develop outside, instead of inside, the body. The defect can occur anywhere along the spine.

UR Medicine's Treatments for Spina Bifida

Spina bifida is a life-long condition that is not curable. UR Medicine experts offer specialized treatment that focuses on managing the condition.

A cesarean delivery is often performed to decrease the risk of damage to the spinal cord that may occur during a vaginal delivery. Babies may require care in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for evaluation and may need surgery.

UR Medicine offers state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging, intraoperative neuro-navigational guidance, neurophysiological monitoring, robots, endoscopes, and lasers to provide the most current, effective surgery.

Not all babies will require surgical repair of spina bifida. Non-surgical management of spina bifida may include:

rehabilitation
positioning aids (used to help the child sit, lie, or stand)
braces and splints (used to prevent deformity, promote support or protection)
medications

What Sets Us Apart?

UR Medicine is a world-class medical center and leading academic institution. Our providers offer outstanding patient-centered care and conduct breakthrough research in neurology.

Highly specialized newborn care is provided in our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Our NICU is a Level IV care facility and treats all neonatal medical and surgical problems, including advanced therapy for cardiac and pulmonary diseases, such as cardiac surgery and ECMO.

UR Medicine's Golisano Children’s Hospital's Neonatology program has been recognized as one of the nation's best in the U.S. News & World Report's Best Children's Hospital rankings.