Myelomeningocele, or spina bifida, is the most common neural tube defect (NTD). NTDs are caused by abnormal fetal development of the neural tube when the opening in the spinal cord fails to close by the 28th day after fertilization of the egg, often before a woman knows she is pregnant. During this stage the neural groove folds over to become the neural tube, which becomes the spinal cord and vertebral arches. If a portion of the groove does not close, it results in a sac on the spine that contains meninges and spinal nerves.1 The location of the NTD on the spine affects the motor function and level of sensation in the lower parts of the body. A higher lesion corresponds to greater paralysis.
Children with spina bifida have complex and lifelong medical care needs. A team of providers, including the registered dietitian (RD), provides optimum care by using a comprehensive, coordinated, multidisciplinary approach. The child and his/her family form the core of the interdisciplinary team. The primary care provider (PCP) functions as the “medical home” and supports the family in advocating for the child from the time of entry into the practice, through adolescence and the transition to adult providers. The PCP’s central and unique role includes coordinating the required ongoing communication and management with pediatric medical and developmental sub-specialists including RD, orthopedist, urologist, neurosurgeon, nurse specialist, speech therapist, physical therapist (PT), occupational therapist (OT), social worker, and other community providers
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Nutrition Issues in Children with Myelomeningocele (Spina Bifida)
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