AbstractNeural tube defects are most frequent, costly & deadly of all congenital anomalies. Open neural tube defect has exposed neural tissue and is continuously or intermittently leaking cerebrospinal fluid, extensive changes are almost always present in the CNS. Closed neural tube defect has no visible neural tissue and no leaking CSF. Causes include genetic and environmental factors. They may occur in isolation or as a part of a syndrome or chromosomal disorder. It has been estimated that 60-70% of neural tube defects have genetic component. The occurrence or recurrence of neural tube defects can be prevented with administration of folic acid before and in early pregnancy. The aim of present study is to assess different types of spinal cord malformation and their outcome of surgery of the patients admitted to our institute. Methods: This prospective study reports 10 cases of neural tube defects at different levels of spinal cord. Occipital, dorsal and lumbo-sacral regions that are admitted to our hospital for surgical repair between October 2018 to September 2019. Results- A total of 10 cases have been operated after confirming the diagnosis with MRI, out of which 1-occipital, 1-thoracic and 8 are lumbosacral region. All the patients have improved well and are under regular follow-up.Out of which 6 were male and 4 were female. 3 were neonates, 2 were infants and 5 were children. Conclusion- All 10 cases are managed accordingly and producing no new neurological deficits post operatively. An early diagnosis, timely intervention and meticulous repair gives good results.
Keywords: Congenital; Neural tube defect; Surgical repair; Prevention.
Corresponding Author : Basavaraj T Badadal