Spina bifida and tethered spinal cord are congenital diseases that can lead to severe disability. At present, most doctors in relevant specialties in China still have insufficient understanding of spina bifida, resulting in high incidence and aggravation of its complications. To provide guidance for the diagnosis and treatment of spina bifida and tethered spinal cord in China, experts from neurosurgery, urology, orthopedics, spine surgery, and rehabilitation departments who have experiences in the diagnosis and treatment of spina bifida discussed and summarized their experiences, and referred to the relevant literature on the diagnosis and treatment of spina bifida at home and abroad. Expert consensus was formed in the following aspects: concept, classification, and pathological changes of spina bifida; diagnosis; treatment process and operation timing; principles and methods of treatment; rehabilitation; and follow up. This expert consensus can provide reference for relevant care providers of spina bifida in China.
ObjectiveTo review the research progress on etiology and pathogenesis of spina bifida. MethodsBy consulting relevant domestic and foreign research literature on spina bifida, the classification, epidemic trend, pathogenesis, etiology, prevention and treatment of it were analyzed and summarized. ResultsSpina bifida, a common phenotype of neural tube defects, is classified based on the degree and pattern of malformation associated with neuroectodermal involvement and is due to the disturbance of neural tube closure 28 days before embryonic development. The prevalence of spina bifida varies greatly among different ethnic groups and regions, and its etiology is complex. Currently, some spina bifida patients can be prevented by folic acid supplements, and with the improvement of treatment technology, the short-term and long-term survival rate of children with spina bifida has improved. ConclusionThe research on the pathogenesis of spina bifida will be based on the refined individual information on exposure, genetics, and complex phenotype, and will provide a theoretical basis for improving prevention and treatment strategies through multidisciplinary cooperation.