What is Spina Bifida?

Spina bifida (SB) is a neural tube defect (a disorder involving incomplete development of the brain, spinal cord, and/or their protective coverings) caused by the failure of the fetus's spine to close properly during the first month of pregnancy. Infants born with SB sometimes have an open lesion on their spine where significant damage to the nerves and spinal cord has occurred. 

Although the spinal opening can be surgically repaired shortly after birth, the nerve damage is permanent, resulting in varying degrees of paralysis of the lower limbs. Even when there is no lesion present there may be improperly formed or missing vertebrae and accompanying nerve damage. In addition to physical and mobility difficulties, most individuals have some form of learning disability. 

The types of SB are: myelomeningocele, the severest form, in which the spinal cord and its protective covering (the meninges) protrude from an opening in the spine; meningocele in which the spinal cord develops normally but the meninges and spinal fluid) protrude from a spinal opening; closed neural tube defects, which consist of a group of defects in which development of the spinal cord is affected by malformations of the fat, bone, or meninges; and and occulta, the mildest form, in which one or more vertebrae are malformed and covered by a layer of skin. 

SB may also cause bowel and bladder complications, and many children with SB have hydrocephalus (excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain).

Let's watch a story from Sarah.

One viewer, tianaalsell, said "Not everyone has support from real people. Unless you have faith in something, you won't understand the feeling of someone watching over you and ensuring your safety. No one is pushing God on you, (I'm sure you chose to come to this video,) so why are you trying to push the idea of God not existing on the rest of us?"

I think that it is alright for Sarah, or anyone else for that matter, to speak out. To honestly express yourself is very healthy as it lets people know what you are thinking and how you are feeling. Those who like to help you will come forward.

So, whether you have strong faith or feel despair, speak up. There is no right or wrong when it comes to talking about you.

Now let's watch a video by dksmith

There's always two sides to the same story. So hang in there.

Facts

Spina bifida is a condition that affects the spine and is usually apparent at birth. It is a type of neural tube defect (NTD).

Spina bifida can happen anywhere along the spine if the neural tube does not close all the way. The backbone that protects the spinal cord does not form and close as it should. This often results in damage to the spinal cord and nerves.

Spina bifida might cause physical and intelectual disabilities that range from mild to severe. The severity depends on:

• The size and location of the opening in the spine.
• Whether part of the spinal cord and nerves are affected.

Updated 6/07/2013