1. Spina Bifida
Megan Morrisey

2. Scientific and Common Name
Scientific name is Myelomeningocele
Common name is Spina Bifida

3. Cause and Transmitted Spina Bifida is caused by the
failure of the babies spine to
close properly during the first
month of pregnancy
Genetic defect
Low levels of folic acid before and during pregnancy possibly partake in the cause
Theory that viruses might play a role, since there is a higher rate of this defect in newborns during winter months

4. Targeted Population No specific targeted population, anyone can get it
1 out of 800 babies are affected
To reduce changes, it is recommended to take folic acid

5. Where and How
This condition can affect the entire length on the CNS, including the brain as well as the entire spine
Most cases have lots of brain abnormalities, resulting in hydrocephalus

6. Symptoms Loss of bladder/bowel control Loss of sensation
Possibly paralysis of legs
Weakness in hips, legs, and feet
Possible abnormalities in feet
Hydrocephalus
Meningitis
UTI’s

7. Prognosis
Most individuals live well into adulthood depending on how bad their condition is
Usually this condition can be surgically corrected
Problems occur later in life, as the individual hits puberty
-More loss of function
-Orthopedic problems
-Foot/ankle deformities
-Dislocation of hips
Most individuals use a wheelchair

8. Vaccine or Treatment
There is currently no cure or vaccine for this disorder
There are two common treatments
-Prenatal- Surgery is taken place between 19 and 25 weeks of pregnancy. The uterus is opened up to where the baby’s back is in sight and the sac is removed. The fetus and mother are then examined and followed up with weekly ultrasounds. There is a planned cesarean birth at 37 weeks.
-Postnatal- The same surgery is
taken place but 24 to 48 hours after a
cesarean birth at 37 weeks. A
cesarean birth is planned incase a
sac is present.
Prenatal treatment is proven to be the
most beneficial though most dangerous

9. Jean Driscoll Born with Spina Bifida Grew up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Began using her wheelchair in high school and started playing wheelchair sports
Recruited to play wheelchair basketball at University of Illinois and later joined the track and field team
Competed in her first Paralympics in 1988
Supports programming for the disabled by racing in the College Church’s annual fund raising race

10. Organizations The Spina Bifida Association
Non-profit association that provides information and referrals through a clearinghouse and number you can call
Promotes research into the causes, treatment and prevention of Spina Bifida
As well as conducts public awareness campaigns and encourages socialization and training for people with Spina Bifida

11. Resources
Neurological institute of neurological disorders and stroke. (2012). Retrieved from
David, Z. (2011, March 15). Pubmed health. Retrieved from
Ucsf benioff childrens. (2011, June 1). Retrieved from