Spina bifida
Spina bifida is a defect in the development of the neural tube (backbone) in the baby.
The spine should develop into a protective tube of bones with the nerve cord running down the middle. In spina bifida, the bones do not totally enclose the spinal cord and it can bulge out from the unborn baby's back and become damaged.
The cause of spina bifida remains unknown, but taking folic acid supplements can reduce risk.
A baby born with spina bifida will be seen by a paediatric surgeon or paediatric neurosurgeon shortly after birth. The surgeon will then decide whether or not to repair the defect in the back. The surgery will take place in a specialist unit usually within 48 hours.
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