Understanding the condition that affects thousands of families across Texas.
Spina Bifida is a birth defect where the spine and spinal cord don’t form properly during fetal development. It occurs when the neural tube fails to close completely during the first month of pregnancy.
As the most common permanently disabling birth defect in the United States, Spina Bifida affects approximately 1 in 2,500 births and has a significant impact on the lives of individuals and families.
With proper medical care, education, and community support, individuals with Spina Bifida can lead fulfilling, independent lives.
Spina Bifida presents in three main forms, each with different severity levels and outcomes.
The most serious form, where the spinal cord and protective membranes push through the opening in the spine. This typically results in varying degrees of paralysis and loss of sensation below the opening, often requiring multiple surgeries and ongoing medical care.
The protective fluid surrounding the spinal cord pushes through the opening in the spine, but the spinal cord itself is not affected. This form typically results in minimal or no nerve damage, with better functional outcomes than Myelomeningocele.
The mildest form, where there is a small gap in one or more of the vertebrae. Often, the skin is intact and normal. Many individuals may have no symptoms or complications and may not even know they have this condition.
Births affected
People living with SB in the U.S.
Of cases are Myelomeningocele
Years average lifespan
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