Neural Tube Defect
The Neural tube defect also called spinal dysraphism where the affected have herniated spinal content outside of the spinal cord. Those who have neural tube defects diagnosed at the first day of birth and those who have open neural tube defects should undergo surgery within 24 hours of birth to prevent life-threatening meningitis. Those who have close neural tube defects can be planned on at elective basis according to the individual condition of the patient. Neural tube defects are different types which are called as meningocele, myelomeningocele, lipomyelomeningocele, myelocystocele, LDM, Spit cord malformation, Spina Bifida…etc.
These Neural tube defects are only should be treated by neurosurgeons who are trained in paediatric neurosurgery as they are aware of rare syndromic conditions associated with the neural tube defects.
The majority of neural tube defects are associated with the maternal absence of folic acid supplements before conceiving.