Spina bifida Flashcards
define the diagnosis of spina bifida and co-existing conditions
describe the impairments associated with this diagnosis
discuss tests and measures for this diagnosis
identify common medial management procedures and PT interventions for this diagnosis
apply knowledge of PT management through a case exercise
what is spina bifida
Spina Bifida is a type of neural tube defect that occurs when one or more vertebrae fail to fuse at approximately 28 days of gestation, leaving the spinal cord unprotected in utero.
90-95% dont have a family history of spina bifida.
neural tube development
neurulation in weeks 3 and 4 of gestation
what is the difference between open and closed spinal dysraphism?
Open spinal dysraphism (OSD) – Meninges and/or nerve tissue are exposed to the external environment. Most prevalent.
Closed spinal dysraphism (CSD) – Meninges and nerve tissue are covered by skin. Mildest form of the condition.
what is spina bifida occult?
hair tuff at the level of the injury
what is spina bifida meningocele?
spinal fluid at the level of injury
what is lipomyelomeningocele
fatty tissue at the level of injury
what is myelomenigeocele?
spinal nerves
99% of all case
what can be used to diagnosis prenatal SB?
13-15 weeks - blood lab looking for alpha fetoprotein 80% reliable
16-24 weeks fetal ultrasound >90% reliable
16-18 weeks amniocentesis 100% accurate
how do you determine the complexity of SB?
Complications can range from minor to severe physical and mental disabilities.
Impact determined by:
Size/Location of malformation
Open vs closed
Which spinal nerves are involved
most common for L5-s1 to be affected
The higher the malformation occurs on the back, the greater the amount of nerve damage and loss of muscle function and sensation.
what are the causes and risk factors of sb?
Exact cause is still an unknown. There are likely multiple factors:
Genetic
Nutritional
Environmental
Folic acid (vitamin B9), when taken by the mother prenatally reduces the risk of neural tube defects by up to 70%.
FDA/CDC Recommendation – all women of childbearing age ingest 0.4 mg (400 µg) of folic acid every day. Dietary sources include dark leafy greens, whole grains, and legumes.
What are the neuromuscular, sensory, and motor deficits in spina bifida?
Loss of sensation
Loss of muscle strength and control
Loss of bowel/bladder control
Muscle contractures
what are thew skeletal impairments associated with SB?
Foot abnormalities (eg, club foot)
Shorter legs
Decreased bone density
Scoliosis
Hip subluxation and dislocation
what is hydrocephalus and what are the symptoms of it?
Caused by a disturbance of formation, flow or absorption of cerebrospinal fluid.
Approximately 25% at birth, which increases up to 90% who will require a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt.
Signs & Symptoms:
Headaches
Nausea
Lethargy
Vision problems
Hoarse cry
Swallow issues
Changes in speech
Seizures
what are the other possible complications of SB?
Hydrocephalus
Arnold Chiari Malformation
Seizures
Cognitive impairments
Tethered Cord
Bowel/bladder complications
Latex allergy
73% have a latex allergy