Meningomyelocoele

Myelomeningocele is the most common open neural tube defect. It is characterized by failure of the neural tube to close  during embryonic development (fourth-week post-fertilization), leading to the herniation of the meninges and spinal cord through a vertebral defect.

There are four types of spina bifida: occulta, closed neural tube defects, meningocele, and myelomeningocele.

causes of myelomeningocele

The exact cause is unknown, but a lack of folic acid, exposure to viruses, exposure to radiation, and/or genetics are suspected.

Diagnosis

It is diagnosed with prenatal blood work, amniocentesis, physical exam, and ultrasound.

Treatment
Most cases of myelomeningocele are treated surgically by pediatric surgeon soon after birth. In some cases, the repair is done while still in the womb prior to delivery. Children that have hydrocephalus (chiari II malformation) will likely require surgery to decrease fluid in the brain (VP shunt). Children with myelomeningocele often require care from multiple specialities such as neurology, physical therapy, orthopedics etc.