Spina bifida is a congenital central nervous system disorder due to malformation of the vertebral canal. The prevalence of this entity in Japan is about one-tenth that in Western countries. It is classified into occult and cystic types based on appearance. Various techniques of surgery used, and the orthopedic and urological problems encountered in 18 cases of spina bifida cystica are discussed. The outcome of brain surgery and urological control were found to be satisfactory in these patients and no serious complications were observed. Twelve patients were able to walk.
spina bifida
dislocation of hip
clean intermittent catheterization