Abstract:
Spina bifida is a birth defect of the neural tube that results in an incomplete closure of the spinal column. There are four distinct forms of spina bifida, and depending upon the form, there is an extensive range in the severity of the spinal injury, as well as the secondary conditions that often accompany spina bifida. Treatments for the disorder range from intensive surgical methods to the simple use of medications to treat secondary complications. Although contingent upon the severity of the physical and cognitive dysfunction, those suffering from spina bifida experience similar, though delayed, independence and growth from adolescence to adulthood. Though a vast amount of knowledge has been gained in recent decades, much knowledge is still needed in order to fully understand the molecular and genetic pathways, which lead to the development of spina bifida, and as this knowledge is gained, better treatment methods will result.
