Next Section

Introduction

Shubhra Mukherjee, MD

Spina Bifida (SB) is a condition that is present at birth, and results from an abnormality in the development of the neural tube, which forms the spinal cord. Depending on the abnormality, there is weakness in the areas that the damaged nerves control, such as sensory areas and muscles to the abdomen, legs, and bowel and bladder . Most people with spina bifida also have a shunt, to help drain the cerebrospinal fluid out of the brain ventricles. Involvement may be cervical (at the neck), or thoracic (chest), lumbar (low back) or sacral (base of spine).

Next Section

This fact sheet was last updated on 03-02-2007.