Spina bifida care from infancy through childhood

A spina bifida diagnosis can feel overwhelming, especially in the early days. Our team helps families understand the neurosurgical needs that may come with spina bifida and works closely with other specialists to support each child’s health, development and long-term function.

Overview

Spina bifida is a condition that affects the development of the spine and spinal cord and is usually present at birth. The type and severity can vary widely. Some children have mild findings, while others need ongoing care for concerns involving the brain, spine, movement, sensation or bladder and bowel function.

Neurosurgical care often focuses on the spinal defect itself and related conditions such as hydrocephalus and tethered spinal cord. Our team helps families understand what needs attention now and what should be monitored as a child grows.

Neurosurgical concerns we commonly evaluate

  • Open or closed spinal defects
  • Hydrocephalus and shunt-related concerns
  • Tethered spinal cord
  • Changes in strength, sensation, walking or balance
  • Back or leg pain
  • Changes in bladder or bowel function
  • Questions after a prenatal or newborn diagnosis

How we support your child

Care begins with understanding your child’s specific diagnosis, symptoms, imaging and prior treatment. For newborns with an open spinal defect, neurosurgical treatment may be needed soon after birth. Other children may be followed over time for hydrocephalus, tethering or new neurologic changes.

Because spina bifida can affect more than one body system, coordinated care is often important. We work with families and other pediatric specialists to support both immediate treatment needs and long-term function.

Treatment options

Treatment is individualized. Surgery may be used to close an open spinal defect, treat hydrocephalus with a shunt or other appropriate procedure, or release a tethered spinal cord when symptoms and evaluation indicate that surgery may help.

Some children do not need an operation right away. In those cases, follow-up focuses on growth, development, neurologic function and signs that the brain or spinal cord may need additional attention.

What families can expect

  • Clear guidance after a prenatal, newborn or childhood diagnosis
  • Review of imaging, symptoms and prior procedures
  • Coordination with other specialists when multidisciplinary care is needed
  • Long-term neurosurgical follow-up as your child grows
  • Straightforward discussion of when surgery may or may not be helpful

When to call us

  • New or worsening back or leg pain
  • Changes in walking, balance, leg strength or sensation
  • New changes in bladder or bowel function
  • Concerns about a shunt or symptoms that may suggest increased pressure
  • Changes around a prior spinal surgery site
  • Questions about prenatal counseling, newborn care or long-term follow-up

Why families choose Pediatric Neurosurgical Specialists

Our practice provides pediatric neurosurgical care with a personal approach and works closely with pediatric specialists at Medical City Children’s Hospital when coordinated care is needed. Families can expect straightforward communication, thoughtful planning and ongoing follow-up as their child grows.

Call us at (972) 566-6900 to schedule an appointment today.