During
myelomeningocele repair, a myelomeningocele is closed. This procedure is
typically performed within 24 to 72 hours following birth.
Also Known As:
- Birth defect repair
- Spine repair of infants
- Myelomeningocele closure
Conditions Treated with Myelomeningocele
Repair:
Myelomeningocele
repair is performed in cases of a myelomeningocele, a neural tube defect that
results in the vertebrae and spinal cord protruding in a sac from the base of
the back. The procedure can also be performed in cases of meningocele, where
the vertebrae do not form properly.
There are no
comparable non-surgical alternatives to myelomeningocele repair. The procedure
may performed with the intrauterine method as a surgical alternative.
Anesthesia with Myelomeningocele Repair:
Myelomeningocele
repair is performed under general anesthesia, which means that the patient is
asleep and completely unaware during the procedure.
Potential Complications from Myelomeningocele
Repair:
Possible risks
following myelomeningocele repair include meningitis, hydrocephalus,
ventriculitis, hind brain dysfunction, wound infection, bleeding, cerebrospinal
fluid leak and a negative reaction to the anesthesia. It is also possible for
there to be paralysis and weakness due to spinal cord damage.
Prognosis after Myelomeningocele Repair:
The prognosis for a
positive end result following myelomeningocele repair is good when it comes to
preventing infection of brain ventricles and cerebrospinal fluid. However, the
child is typically paralyzed from below the myelomeningocele.
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