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Schematic representation of the formation of the mouse spinal neural tube. Process of closure of the PNP of embryos undergoing Mode 1 (a, b, d) or Mode 2 (a, c, d) neurulation. (a) Neuroepithelium thickens and converges; (b) formation of bilateral neural folds which are elevated (Mode 1); (c) apposing tips of neural folds aided by bending at the dorsolateral hinge points (DLHP) of the bilateral neural folds (Mode 2); (d) adhesion and fusion at the tips of the neural folds; (e) remodeling of the neural tube. Ne, neuroepithelium; Se, surface ectoderm; Me, mesoderm; MHP, median hinge point; DLHP, dorsolateral hinge points; POAF, point of adhesion and fusion; Nt, notochord.
Source publication
Spina bifida is among the phenotypes of the larger condition known as neural tube defects (NTDs). It is the most common central nervous system malformation compatible with life and the second leading cause of birth defects after congenital heart defects. In this review paper, we define spina bifida and discuss the phenotypes seen in humans as descr...
Citations
... In some instances, these were determined to be co-incidental [18]. SBO occurs due to the non-fusion of the posterior elements of the vertebral arch [19]. Unlike more severe forms of spina bifida, it has no neurological pathological condition resulting from a prior disease, injury, or attack. ...
... Spina bifida is the second major cause of congenital disorders following congenital heart defects and the most common central nervous system malformation compatible with life [1]. ...
Introduction: Myelomeningocele repair is a relatively uncommon procedure. Much of this has been attributed to improve nutrition and early detection. Our aim is to detect early (30 days) outcome of pediatrict patients undergoing postnatal myelomeningocele repair. Material and Methods: The prospective observational study was carried out on 68 patients presented with myelomeningocele who underwent surgery with age ranged from one (1) month to two (2) years got admitted in the department of neurosurgery, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University from January 2020 to May 2023. Results: Maximum age was found 1 month to 3 months, female baby were predominant which was 40(58.8%), majority 48(70.6%) were medium size, common location were Dorsal (14.7%), Lumbar (45.6%) and Dorsolumbar (33.8%). CSF leak found (8.8%), decreased power of limbs found (38.2%), wound infection was found (5.9%), hydrocephalus found (39.7%), New hydrocephalus (2.9%) and New neurological deficit (1.5%). The duration of hospital stay 4.1±0.8 days. Conclusion: Most complications occur within 30 days of myelomeningocele repair. Wound infection was found in 5.9%. Mostly occurs between 1 to 3 months of age. Early repair of myelomeningocele reduces neurological impairment significantly.
... Myelomeningocele, the most common neural tube defect, involves the incomplete fusion of the posterior spinal column, leading to the protrusion of neural tissue and meninges through the fetus's posterior aspect [1]. This condition lacks skin coverage; thus, maternal tests reveal elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), and ultrasound typically confirms the prenatal diagnosis. ...
... Appendix 1. Suggested comments to families during the prenatal time-period 1. "The best questions often come up on the drive home. ...
Introduction
A cross-sectional study retrospectively evaluating the perceived usefulness of attending a multi-disciplinary, roundtable, educational prenatal clinic for mothers expecting children with myelomeningocele is presented.
Methods
Mothers who currently have children with SB completed a survey which evaluated their overall preparedness, spina bifida education, delivery plans, surgical expectations, and expectations in terms of quality of life and development. Open comments were also collected. Statistical analysis was performed to identify differences between those who attended prenatal counseling and those who did not.
Results
Approximately half of these mothers received some form of prenatal SB counseling. Mothers who attended prenatal counseling reported that they felt more informed and prepared throughout their pregnancy, during the delivery of their child and during their initial hospital stay than mothers who did not. They reported that the roundtable discussions were beneficial, and the education they received was useful in helping them form accurate expectations and feel more at ease.
Conclusion
This suggests that prenatal counseling and the High-Risk Pregnancy Clinic (HRPC) provides perceived utility to families and mothers and that the HRPC is an effective method of providing prenatal counseling to mothers whose unborn children have been diagnosed with myelomeningocele.
... Myelomeningocele (MMC) is the most common congenital developmental anomaly of the central nervous system, where many individuals with MMC have deficits in motor and/or sensory function below the level of the lesion [1][2][3][4][5]. MMC is also associated with pathology distant from the site of the defect itself, including Chiari II malformation, which is characterized by supratentorial abnormalities affecting the massa intermedia, corpus callosum, and septum pellucidum, as well as infratentorial abnormalities resulting in hindbrain herniation, tectal beaking, and medullary kinking and compression [6][7][8][9]. ...
Purpose
Patients and caregivers impacted by myelomeningocele (MMC) use online discussion board forums to create community and share information and concerns about this complex medical condition. We aim to identify the primary concerns expressed on these forums with the goal of understanding gaps in care that may merit investment of resources to improve care received by this population.
Methods
Anonymous posts from online MMC discussion boards were compiled using internet search engines. Posts were then analyzed using an adaptation of the Grounded Theory Method, a three-step system involving open, axial, and selective coding of the data by two independent researchers to identify common themes.
Results
Analysis of 400 posts written primarily by parents (n = 342, 85.5%) and patients (n = 45, 11.25%) yielded three overarching themes: questions surrounding quality of life, a lack of support for mothers of children with MMC, and confusion with a complex healthcare system. Many posts revealed concerns about management and well-being with MMC, including posts discussing symptoms and related conditions (n = 299, 75.75%), treatments (n = 259, 65.75%), and emotional aspects of MMC (n = 146, 36.5%). Additionally, families, especially mothers, felt a lack of support in their roles as caregivers. Finally, in 118 posts (29.5%), patients and families expressed frustration with navigating a complex healthcare system and finding specialists whose opinions they trusted.
Conclusions
MMC is a complex medical condition that impacts patients and families in unique ways. Analysis of online discussion board posts identified key themes to be addressed in order to improve the healthcare experiences of those impacted by MMC.
... Myelomeningocele, the most common neural tube defect, involves the incomplete fusion of the posterior spinal column, leading to the protrusion of neural tissue and meninges through the fetus's posterior aspect. [4] This condition lacks skin coverage, thus, maternal tests reveal elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), and ultrasound typically con rms the prenatal diagnosis. ...
A cross-sectional study retrospectively evaluating the perceived usefulness of attending a multi-disciplinary, roundtable, educational prenatal clinic for mothers expecting children with myelomeningocele is presented. Mothers who currently have children with SB completed a survey which evaluated their overall preparedness, spina bifida education, delivery plans, surgical expectations, and expectations in terms of quality of life and development. Open comments were also collected. Approximately half of these mothers received some form of prenatal SB counseling. Statistical analysis was performed to identify differences between those who attended prenatal counseling and those who did not. Mothers who attended prenatal counseling reported that they felt more informed and prepared throughout their pregnancy, during the delivery of their child, and during their initial hospital stay than mothers who did not. They reported that the roundtable discussions were beneficial, and the education they received was useful in helping them form accurate expectations and feel more at ease. This suggests that prenatal counseling and the High-Risk Pregnancy Clinic (HRPC) provides perceived utility to families and mothers and that the HRPC is an effective method of providing prenatal counseling to mothers whose unborn children have been diagnosed with myelomeningocele.
... This condition often leads to a spectrum of motor impairments, encompassing gait abnormalities, muscle weakness, and compromised functional mobility. The prevalence of spina bifida remains a global concern, affecting approximately 1 in 1000 live births (Mohd-Zin et al., 2017;Oumer et al., 2020). It remains a prevalent condition requiring comprehensive and innovative rehabilitation strategies. ...
Spina bifida, a congenital neural tube defect, presents a complex set of challenges, particularly in motor function, for individuals across the lifespan. The condition is characterized by incomplete closure of the spinal column during embryonic development, leading to a spectrum of motor impairments such as gait abnormalities, muscle weakness, and compromised functional mobility. The prevalence of spina bifida remains a global concern, affecting approximately 1 in 1000 live births. This research investigates the potential impact of virtual reality (VR) rehabilitation on motor function in individuals with spina bifida in Tanzania. A randomized controlled trial involving 120 participants is designed, with one group undergoing traditional rehabilitation and another engaging in a six-week VR rehabilitation program. Motor function assessments, including gait analysis, muscle strength measurements, and functional mobility tests, were conducted at baseline, midpoint, and post-intervention. Preliminary analysis suggests that VR rehabilitation may offer unique benefits, leading to improvements in motor function. The study aims to contribute valuable insights into the efficacy of VR-based interventions for enhancing the motor capabilities of individuals with spina bifida, providing a foundation for future rehabilitation strategies in this population.
... This condition often leads to a spectrum of motor impairments, encompassing gait abnormalities, muscle weakness, and compromised functional mobility. The prevalence of spina bifida remains a global concern, affecting approximately 1 in 1000 live births (Mohd-Zin et al., 2017;Oumer et al., 2020). It remains a prevalent condition requiring comprehensive and innovative rehabilitation strategies. ...
Spina bifida, a congenital neural tube defect, presents a complex set of challenges, particularly in motor function, for individuals across the lifespan. The condition is characterized by incomplete closure of the spinal column during embryonic development, leading to a spectrum of motor impairments such as gait abnormalities, muscle weakness, and compromised functional mobility. The prevalence of spina bifida remains a global concern, affecting approximately 1 in 1000 live births. This research investigates the potential impact of virtual reality (VR) rehabilitation on motor function in individuals with spina bifida in Tanzania. A randomized controlled trial involving 120 participants is designed, with one group undergoing traditional rehabilitation and another engaging in a six-week VR rehabilitation program. Motor function assessments, including gait analysis, muscle strength measurements, and functional mobility tests, were conducted at baseline, midpoint, and post-intervention. Preliminary analysis suggests that VR rehabilitation may offer unique benefits, leading to improvements in motor function. The study aims to contribute valuable insights into the efficacy of VR-based interventions for enhancing the motor capabilities of individuals with spina bifida, providing a foundation for future rehabilitation strategies in this population.
... This condition often leads to a spectrum of motor impairments, encompassing gait abnormalities, muscle weakness, and compromised functional mobility. The prevalence of spina bifida remains a global concern, affecting approximately 1 in 1000 live births (Mohd-Zin et al., 2017;Oumer et al., 2020). It remains a prevalent condition requiring comprehensive and innovative rehabilitation strategies. ...
Spina bifida, a congenital neural tube defect, presents a complex set of challenges, particularly in motor function, for individuals across the lifespan. The condition is characterized by incomplete closure of the spinal column during embryonic development, leading to a spectrum of motor impairments such as gait abnormalities, muscle weakness, and compromised functional mobility. The prevalence of spina bifida remains a global concern, affecting approximately 1 in 1000 live births. This research investigates the potential impact of virtual reality (VR) rehabilitation on motor function in individuals with spina bifida in Tanzania. A randomized controlled trial involving 120 participants is designed, with one group undergoing traditional rehabilitation and another engaging in a six-week VR rehabilitation program. Motor function assessments, including gait analysis, muscle strength measurements, and functional mobility tests, were conducted at baseline, midpoint, and post-intervention. Preliminary analysis suggests that VR rehabilitation may offer unique benefits, leading to improvements in motor function. The study aims to contribute valuable insights into the efficacy of VR-based interventions for enhancing the motor capabilities of individuals with spina bifida, providing a foundation for future rehabilitation strategies in this population.
... Spina bifida is a general term that refers to varying levels of pathology involving the spinal cord and nerve root (Melintenda et al. 2003;Mohd-Zin et al. 2017). It is a congenital condition that results from incomplete closure of the neural tube during early embryonic development (Banta et al. 1990;Moore, Persaud 2003). ...
... It is a congenital condition that results from incomplete closure of the neural tube during early embryonic development (Banta et al. 1990;Moore, Persaud 2003). Spina bifida is classified into spina bifida cystica and spina bifida occulta (Mohd-Zin et al. 2017). Spina bifida cystica, which includes meningocele and myelomeningocele, is called "open" spina bifida (McComb 1997). ...
The aim of the study is to evaluate the frequency of spina bifida oculta (SBO) in the early modern population from Dąbrówki (Poland); 26 males, 19 females, 3 adults with unspecified sex, 2 subadult were taken into the analysis. SBO was found in 9 individuals (18%), of whom only one exhibited a complete cleft in the sacrum (2%). In males, SBO was reported in 7 out of 26 skeletons studied (27%). Complete cleft was observed in one individual (4%), partial cleft in 6 individuals (23%). In females, no case of complete cleft was detected (0%), and one case of partial cleft was found (5%). These differences between males and females in the frequency of this skeletal condition were statistically significant.Due to the lack of uniform methods for SBO analyses, the inability to make interpopulation compari-sons, the relatively high prevalence of the SBO phenomenon in ancient and modern populations, and the unclear etiology of the disease, research on SBO should be continued.
... This advanced imaging tool is particularly useful in complex cases where detailed visualization and characterization of the defect are required. The integration of ultrasound and MRI imaging enhances diagnostic accuracy and aids in surgical planning if required [6]. ...
Spina bifida aperta is a congenital malformation characterized by incomplete closure of the neural
tube during fetal development. Prenatal diagnosis of spina bifida aperta plays a crucial role in
enabling early interventions and improving patient outcomes. This case report aims to present the
importance of first-trimester ultrasound and histopathology examination in diagnosing spina bifida
aperta.
A pregnant woman at 13 weeks gestation presented for routine prenatal care. Transabdominal
ultrasound examination revealed an abnormality consistent with a neural tube defect. Detailed
assessment of the fetal spine using high-frequency transducers and three-dimensional ultrasound
showed a midline defect with a sac-like protrusion containing cerebrospinal fluid, indicative of
spina bifida aperta. Subsequent magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the ultrasound findings.
Early detection of spina bifida aperta during the first trimester is essential for appropriate management
and counseling. Ultrasound imaging plays a pivotal role in the antenatal diagnosis of spina bifida
aperta. It provides detailed visualization of the neural tube and associated structural abnormalities.
In complex cases, magnetic resonance imaging can offer further anatomical delineation.
Histopathological examination remains a valuable adjunct to prenatal diagnosis, providing a
definitive confirmation of spina bifida aperta since gross macroscopic examination aids in assessing
the extent and nature of the defect, while microscopic analysis offers insights into the histological
changes associated with the condition.
