About Cervical spina bifida aperta
What is Cervical spina bifida aperta?
Cervical spina bifida aperta is a birth defect in which the spinal column does not close completely around the spinal cord. This can cause the spinal cord to be exposed, leading to a range of physical and neurological problems. Symptoms can include paralysis, loss of sensation, and difficulty controlling bladder and bowel movements. Treatment typically involves surgery to close the opening in the spine and protect the spinal cord.
What are the symptoms of Cervical spina bifida aperta?
The symptoms of cervical spina bifida aperta can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:
- Loss of sensation or feeling in the legs and feet
- Weakness or Paralysis of the legs
- Abnormal curvature of the spine
- Abnormal gait or walking pattern
- Urinary and/or bowel incontinence
- Hydrocephalus (accumulation of fluid in the brain)
- Scoliosis (abnormal curvature of the spine)
- Abnormal development of the spinal cord
- Abnormal development of the vertebrae
- Abnormal development of the spinal nerves
- Abnormal development of the spinal muscles
- Abnormal development of the spinal ligaments
- Abnormal development of the spinal discs
What are the causes of Cervical spina bifida aperta?
Cervical spina bifida aperta is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Genetic factors include a family history of neural tube defects, certain genetic syndromes, and certain medications taken during pregnancy. Environmental factors include a lack of folic acid in the mother's diet, exposure to certain toxins, and certain infections during pregnancy.
What are the treatments for Cervical spina bifida aperta?
1. Surgery: Surgery is the most common treatment for cervical spina bifida aperta. The goal of surgery is to close the spinal defect and prevent further damage to the spinal cord and nerves.
2. Medication: Medications may be prescribed to help manage symptoms such as pain, bladder and bowel control, and muscle spasms.
3. Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can help improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
4. Assistive Devices: Assistive devices such as braces, wheelchairs, and walkers can help improve mobility.
5. Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapy can help improve daily living skills and independence.
6. Counseling: Counseling can help individuals and families cope with the physical and emotional effects of the condition.
What are the risk factors for Cervical spina bifida aperta?
1. Family history of neural tube defects
2. Maternal diabetes
3. Maternal obesity
4. Maternal use of certain medications, such as anticonvulsants, during pregnancy
5. Maternal folic acid deficiency
6. Maternal exposure to certain environmental toxins, such as pesticides
7. Maternal age over 35
8. Maternal smoking during pregnancy
Is there a cure/medications for Cervical spina bifida aperta?
Cervical spina bifida aperta is a congenital condition that cannot be cured. However, there are medications and treatments available to help manage the symptoms. These include physical therapy, medications to reduce pain and spasticity, and surgery to correct spinal deformities.