What Is Spina Bifida?

Spina bifida is a congenital condition in which the spine and spinal cord do not develop properly during early pregnancy. This results in a gap or malformation in the vertebrae, which can affect the spinal nerves and lead to physical and neurological challenges. The severity of spina bifida varies, ranging from mild cases with minimal impact to more serious forms that cause paralysis or mobility issues. Early understanding, diagnosis, and management are crucial to improve quality of life and prevent complications.

At Lokmanya Hospital, we provide comprehensive care for children and adults with spina bifida. Our team ensures accurate diagnosis, personalised treatment, and ongoing support for families. Individuals seeking reliable spina bifida treatment in Pune benefit from our integrated approach, which combines expert neurological evaluation, surgical and non-surgical interventions, and long-term rehabilitation to enhance mobility and independence.

Understanding Spina Bifida

Spina bifida occurs when the neural tube, which later forms the spine and spinal cord, fails to close completely during the first month of pregnancy. The condition is classified into three main types:
Spina Bifida Occulta:- The mildest form, often without noticeable symptoms, sometimes discovered incidentally.

• Meningocele:- A sac of fluid protrudes through the spinal opening, with minor nerve involvement.
• Myelomeningocele:- The most severe form, where spinal nerves are exposed, causing significant physical and neurological impairments.

The condition can affect bladder and bowel control, mobility, and learning abilities depending on the severity and location of the spinal defect. Early diagnosis allows timely intervention, which can greatly improve outcomes and overall quality of life.

Causes and Risk Factors

Spina bifida develops due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

1. Genetic Factors

A family history of neural tube defects increases the risk of spina bifida. Specific gene variations may influence the development of the neural tube in early pregnancy.

2. Nutritional Deficiency

Insufficient intake of folic acid before conception and during early pregnancy is a significant risk factor. Adequate folic acid supplementation can reduce the risk of neural tube defects.

3. Environmental Factors

Maternal health conditions, such as diabetes or obesity, exposure to certain medications, and smoking during pregnancy, can increase the likelihood of spina bifida.

4. Other Factors

Advanced maternal age or previous pregnancies affected by neural tube defects can also contribute to higher risk.

Can Spina Bifida Be Cured?

Spina bifida cannot always be fully “cured,” but treatment can significantly improve function, prevent complications, and enhance quality of life.

Surgical Interventions

• Prenatal surgery:- In selected cases, fetal surgery can repair the spinal defect before birth, reducing neurological complications.
• Postnatal surgery:- Repairs the spinal opening and protects nerves from further damage; may also address hydrocephalus.

Supportive Therapies

• Physiotherapy:- Strengthens muscles, improves mobility, and prevents contractures.
• Occupational therapy:- Enhances independence in daily activities.
• Urological and bowel management:- Ensures proper bladder and bowel function in affected individuals.

Long-Term Monitoring

Patients require lifelong follow-up with neurologists, orthopaedic specialists, and rehabilitation experts to manage secondary complications and optimize function.

Why Choose Lokmanya Hospital for Spina Bifida Care?

At Lokmanya Hospital, we provide multidisciplinary care for patients with spina bifida. Our team of neurologists, surgeons, physiotherapists, and rehabilitation specialists work together to offer personalized care plans. Families seeking a trusted spina bifida doctor in Pune can rely on our expertise for accurate diagnosis, comprehensive treatment, and continuous support.
We combine advanced diagnostic tools, modern surgical techniques, and structured rehabilitation programs to ensure holistic care. As a leading neurology hospital in Pune, we are committed to improving mobility, functional independence, and quality of life for patients with spina bifida.

Conclusion

Spina bifida is a complex condition that requires early detection, expert management, and ongoing support to optimize outcomes. While severity varies, timely diagnosis and appropriate interventions can prevent complications and enhance mobility and independence. At Lokmanya Hospital, we provide detailed evaluation, surgical and non-surgical care, physiotherapy, and rehabilitation to support patients and families affected by spina bifida. Our multidisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive management, helping children and adults lead fulfilling lives. Families seeking expert guidance can rely on our team for personalised care, making us a trusted destination for neurology treatment in Pune for spina bifida.

FAQ’s

1. What is spina bifida?
   Spina bifida is a birth defect where the spinal column does not close completely, affecting nerves and muscle function.
2. What are the types of spina bifida?
   There are three main types: occulta (mild), meningocele (moderate), and myelomeningocele (severe).
3. Can spina bifida be detected before birth?
   Yes, prenatal screening, blood tests, ultrasound, and fetal MRI help detect spina bifida early.
4. Is surgery always required for spina bifida?
   Surgery is recommended in moderate to severe cases to correct the defect and prevent complications.
5. Can physiotherapy help?
   Yes, physiotherapy improves strength, mobility, and independence for patients with spina bifida.
6. What causes spina bifida?
   It is caused by genetic and environmental factors, including folic acid deficiency, maternal health conditions, and family history.
7. Can spina bifida be prevented?
   Adequate folic acid intake before and during early pregnancy reduces the risk of neural tube defects.
8. Why choose Lokmanya Hospital for spina bifida care?
   We provide expert neurological evaluation, advanced surgical care, personalised rehabilitation, and long-term support for patients.