myelomeningocele

Myelomeningocele is a type of spina bifida, a birth defect where the backbone and spinal cord don’t develop properly. In this condition, a sac opens on the baby’s back, exposing the spinal cord and nerves. This can lead to nerve damage, resulting in physical disabilities like paralysis, loss of sensation, or bladder and bowel problems. It occurs when the neural tube, which forms the spinal cord, doesn’t close completely during early pregnancy. Treatment typically involves surgery soon after birth to close the opening, along with ongoing medical care to manage individual symptoms and improve quality of life.