Treatment of spina bifida: a cure? Surgery and special care

Spina bifida cannot be cured.

Treatment depends on the severity of the spina bifida, with the mildest forms requiring no treatment.

For the more severe forms, neurosurgery is performed during the growth process to return the spinal cord and spinal cord sheaths to their proper place.

Unfortunately, damaged nerve tissue cannot be repaired or its function restored.

The goal of the surgery is to prevent infection and further damage to the nerve tissue.

Surgical options

Surgical options are divided into surgery on the fetus during pregnancy or surgery on the newborn after birth.

Deciding which type of surgery is better to perform depends on many factors. These include the gestational age of the fetus, the extent of the cleft as well as the condition of the mother.

In the case of the most severe form, surgery is performed while the fetus is still in prenatal development or immediately after birth.

Fetal surgery during pregnancy

New studies have shown that fetal surgery during pregnancy has better treatment outcomes and reduces the risk of hydrocephalus.

Surgery is performed abroad in collaboration with specialists, most often in Switzerland.

This type of surgery improves the baby's chances of mobility, and also improves the motor and sensory functions of the lower limbs. The baby should be able to walk independently as a result.

Fetal surgery is a very demanding procedure and requires the most professional care for both the fetus and the mother.

This procedure is performed between the 19th and 26th week of pregnancy.

Surgery on a newborn after birth

Delivery of a baby with a cleft is planned for the 37th week of pregnancy. 24-48 hours after delivery, spinal adjustment surgery is performed to close the open spinal canal.

Long-term rehabilitation is required after the surgery.

Babies with spina bifida are monitored by specialists and their care includes

• A permanent catheter is inserted for urinary incontinence and digital stimulation, enemas or suppositories are given for faecal incontinence with constipation
• Regular replacement of the inserted catheter
• Care for bowel health, peristalsis and regularity of bowel movements
• Strengthening of the lower limbs
• Physical therapy
• Prevention of decubitus ulcers
• Psychosocial support
• Regular check-ups with specialists in ophthalmology, nephrology, nutrition and plastic surgery