Spina Bifida

What is Spina Bifida?

Literally, Spina Bifida means 'split spine'. Spina bifida occurs when one or more vertebrae in the spine fail to form properly in early pregnancy. When this happens, the nerves in the spine may be unprotected and lead to damage of the central nervous system. This damage may cause mobility difficulties, bladder and bowel problems and, in more severe cases, paralysis below the affected part of the spine.

What are the characteristics of Spina Bifida?

There are different types of Spina Bifida. Disruption of the nervous system depends on how high up the spine the problem lies and how well the spinal cord below the defect works.

In Spina Bifida Occulta, there may be visible signs of a dimple or small hair growth on the back. This is a mild form and rarely causes disability.

In Spina Bifida Cystica, there is a sac or cyst (like a blister) on the back, covered by a thin layer of skin. The sac contains tissues that cover the spinal cord, cerebrospinal fluid and sometimes even the nerves and tissues of the spinal cord itself. There are two forms of cystic Spina Bifida, the most serious of which (Myelomeningocele) can result in paralysis and sensation loss below the damaged region.

In many cases, there is an accompanying condition called hydrocephalus (increased pressure in the fluid in the brain), which can gradually damage brain function, especially if untreated. Other problems include incontinence and urinary tract infections.

Is there a treatment to arrest the progression of Spina Bifida?

Surgery is normally used to treat the more serious forms of Spina Bifida. In cases where hydrocephalus is present, surgery is sometimes necessary to drain the cerebrospinal fluid that builds up. This fluid would normally flow from the brain down the spinal column before being absorbed into the bloodstream, but if the spinal cord is damaged it cannot escape.

Physiotherapy is often used to assist with mobility.

Are there any useful teaching and learning strategies for people with this physical disability?

For information on teaching and learning strategies, click here


Central Remedial Clinic
Vernon Avenue
Clontarf
Dublin 3
Tel: 01-833 2206
E-mail: tdcrc@crc.ie.
Website: http://www.crc.ie∞


Centre for Independent Living (Dublin)
Carmichael House
North Brunswick Street
Dublin 7
Tel: 01-873 0986
Email: info@dublincil.org
Website: http://www.dublincil.org∞


Enable Ireland National Services
32F Rosemount Park Drive, Rosemount Business Park,
Ballycoolin Road, Dublin 11
Tel: + 353 (0)1 872 7155
Fax: + 353 (0)1 866 5222
Email: communications@enableireland.ie
Website: http://www.enableireland.ie∞


The Irish Association for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus
National Resource Centre
Old Nangor Road
Clondalkin
Dublin 22
Tel: 01 457 2329
Fax: 01 457 2328
Lo-call: 1890 20 22 60
Web: http://www.iasbah.ie/∞


The Irish Wheelchair Association
National Headquarters
Áras Chúchulainn
Blackheath Drive
Clontarf
Dublin 3
Tel: 01 8186 400
Fax: 01 8333 873
Email: info@iwa.ie
Web: http://www.iwa.ie∞


Back