Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 5, 2026
Neuronavigation and Laparoscopy Guided Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Insertion for the Treatment of Hydrocephalus
Published on: October 14, 2022
Current approaches to the urologic care of children with spina bifida
1Section of Pediatric Urology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Children's Hospital, 1600 7th Avenue, South, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA. dbjoseph@uab.edu
Insights
Early management of spina bifida (a congenital abnormality) is crucial for preventing serious kidney damage. Close monitoring and intervention from birth optimize renal function and quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nephrology
- Urology
- Developmental Pediatrics
Background:
- Spina bifida is the most common disabling congenital abnormality.
- Most affected infants have normal renal function at birth.
- Untreated neurogenic bladder dysfunction leads to severe renal deterioration by age 5 in over 50% of cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the foundational management strategies for children with spina bifida.
- To emphasize the importance of early renal evaluation and intervention.
- To address the evolving care needs from infancy through adolescence.
Main Methods:
- This article reviews established and recommended management protocols for spina bifida.
- It focuses on a chronological approach to care, starting from the newborn period.
- Key aspects include renal function monitoring, bladder management, and transition to adult care.
Main Results:
- Early and consistent evaluation and intervention during the newborn and toddler years promote normal renal development.
- Proactive management of neurogenic bladder changes prevents secondary renal damage.
- Focus shifts to quality-of-life issues, including continence, as children age.
Conclusions:
- A comprehensive, age-appropriate management plan is essential for children with spina bifida.
- Timely intervention preserves renal function and improves long-term outcomes.
- Empowering adolescents to manage their condition facilitates a successful transition to adult healthcare.
Abstract:
Most children born with spina bifida, the most common disabling congenital abnormality, have normal renal function. If left untreated, more than half of these children will have serious renal deterioration by age 5. This deterioration is secondary to hostile neurogenic changes of the bladder. Renal development should follow a normal course when close evaluation and intervention are undertaken during the newborn period and toddler years. As children age, attention is directed to quality-of-life issues, such as the establishment of urinary and bowel continence. Teenagers face the responsibility of understanding their medical condition and should begin to assume responsibility for their own care with eventual transition to the adult health care system. This article describes the foundations of management, beginning at birth, for caring for children with spina bifida.
Related Concept Videos
01:25Urinary Tract Calculi VI: Surgical Management
01:30Urinary Tract Calculi III: Medical Management
01:28Urinary Tract Calculi V: Nursing Management
01:30Urinary Tract Infection III: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care