How is spina bifida treated?

The baby will be seen by a paediatric surgeon or paediatric neurosurgeon shortly after birth.  The surgeon will then decide whether the child should have surgery to repair the lesion in the back: this surgery will take place in a specialist unit usually within 48 hours.  Some surgeons do not close the back surgically but leave it to heal without intervention.

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Shine Peer Support Volunteers

May 11th

Shine now has two Peer support volunteers working in the East of England to…

Did You Know?

Babies born prematurely are at increased risk of developing hydrocephalus.

Para-athletes with spina bifida and hydrocephalus compete in sports ranging from cycling to dressage.

Each used mobile phone or ipod donated raises around £5 for Shine.

Hydrocephalus may affect memory, concentration and behaviour.

The usual treatment for hydrocephalus is to insert a shunt into the brain.

CSF stands for cerebro-spinal fluid.

Hydrocephalus is a build up of excess fluid in the brain.

Shine is always looking for Marathon Runners to help with fundraising.

Benny Bear is a teddy with hydrocephalus who helps children understand the condition.

Shine has over 2400 followers on Facebook.

Spina bifida occulta is a hidden form of spina bifida.

Shine can raise money by recycling your used inkjet cartridges, toners or CDs and DVDs.

Most babies with spina bifida undergo surgery within 48 hours of birth.

Some babies with spina bifida are now operated on before they are born via keyhole surgery.

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