What is meningomyelocele?
Meningomyelocele is a type of congenital defect and can also be called myelomeingocele . It causes the spine to not close before birth. This results in a visible bag on the back of the newborn. The spinal cord protrudes and nerves and tissues can also be revealed. Bifida is a group of congenital defects including the brain and spinal cord. In normal pregnancies, both sides of the fetus are connected during the first month of pregnancy. This is used to cover spinal cord, nerves and surrounding tissues. A child born with meningomyelocele does not develop as it would normally have in this respect. Infant may also suffer from partial or complete paralysis or lack of feeling, as well as weakness and loss of bladder and intestine control. It may also suffer from other lifested defects such as clubfoot or unusual legs or legs. The child can also have hydrocephalus , which is an excess fluid in the skull.
pregnant women can submit prenatalHo screening during the second trimester of pregnancy to help determine whether their child can have a congenital defect. The blood test, called four times the screen , checks the meningomyelocele and other conditions such as Down's syndrome. Other tests such as ultrasound or amniocentesis may be required to confirm the diagnosis. Amniocentesis is a test that analyzes amniotic fluid that fluctuates the fetus in the womb.
The diagnosis of meningomyelocele after delivery will usually include the X -rays of the backbone. The doctor may also perform a neurological test to check the nervous function. This involves observing how a newborn child reacts to tweezers on the body.
Parents with infant meningomyelocele are usually carefully instructed to handle and place their child to prevent spinal cord damage. The doctor will discuss special feeding and swimming needs. Due to the higher risk of infections, antibiotics may be prescribed as preventive measures.
If a child suffers from hydrocephal, may need a short circuit to release excess fluid. The child's doctor is likely to recommend surgery to repair the meningomyelocele, while the child is still very young. Surgery can help repair a congenital defect.
The child will need subsequent care throughout his life. The doctor will have to follow his development. If a child suffers from neurological problems such as the wrong bladder or intestinal function, further treatment such as the use of the catheter may be required. Any muscle or joint problems can be alleviated by physical therapy and support of strut or wheelchair.
Although it is not clear exactly what causes the forms of spina bifida it is assumed that it may be a combination of factors. Environmental and genetic risk factors can contribute to meningomyelocele. There is also a lack of folic acid, which is vitamin B. To help reduce the risk of congenital defects, pregnant women should discuss the needs of the acidLiny Puff with her doctor.