The Portland Hospital
205-209 Great Portland Street W1W 5AH London
Spina bifida
Spina bifida is a condition that occurs when the spine and spinal cord don't form properly in a baby, when in the womb. The reasons for spina bifida and its causes are unknown. This type of birth defect can be mild or severe, leading to lower-limb paralysis.
What is spina bifida?
Spina bifida happens when a baby's spine doesn't develop properly in the womb, leaving a gap in their spine. There isn't a precise reason behind it but it can cause bowel and bladder problems in later life. In some severe cases, it can lead to mobility issues and paralysis. We can help to support your child.
Need to know
The severity of symptoms of spina bifida will depend on the location of the gap in the spine. If the gap is higher up, it's more likely to lead to leg paralysis and mobility issues. A gap in the middle may only cause bladder and bowel issues, like incontinence.
Sometimes, babies with spina bifida can develop hydrocephalus (excess fluid on the drain). Hydrocephalus can cause damage to the brain and lead to developmental problems, such as difficulty reading and a short attention span.
Spina bifida is a birth defect. It's normally picked up on during a mid-pregnancy anomaly scan, which happens between the 18th and 21st weeks of pregnancy. If spina bifida is confirmed, your GP or consultant will explain what this may mean for you and your baby.
Your consultant will discuss your baby's treatment options with you. This might include surgery soon after birth to close the gap in the spine.
Unfortunately, the condition will have already damaged the nervous system, which can lead to other problems. If your baby's condition is likely to lead to developmental, physical and/or mobility problems, your consultant may also suggest therapies like physiotherapy and occupational therapy. These can help your child to lead a fulfilling and independent life.
For other problems caused by spina bifida, like bowel or urinary problems, they may suggest other treatment options, from medicine to surgery.
About Spina Bifida at The Portland Hospital
After your baby is born, a number of tests will be carried out to find out the severity of spina bifida as this will help your consultant decide the type of treatment. Surgery will take place soon after your baby is born, to close the opening in the spine. Other imaging tests will be required such as MRI or CT scans for monitoring your baby's head and its growth and ultrasounds of the bladder and kidneys.
Our neurosurgery specialists at The Portland Hospital are supported by a multidisciplinary team of paediatricians, radiologists, anaesthetists, specialist nurses, physiotherapists and play therapy specialists who all ensure that your child benefits from the best all-round knowledge and treatment for their condition.
Our spina bifida locations
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.