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Medical complication in adults with spina bifida

L Werhagen1, H Gabrielsson, N Westgren

  • 1Division of Rehabilitation Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Karolinska Institute at Danderyds Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden. lars.werhagen@ki.se

Clinical Neurology and Neurosurgery
|December 19, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Spina bifida (SB) patients experience frequent medical issues like urinary tract infections and scoliosis. Regular medical check-ups are crucial for managing these complications in adults with SB.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Pediatric Medicine
  • Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

  • Spina bifida (SB) is a common congenital central nervous system (CNS) malformation in children.
  • Hydrocephalus (HC) affects approximately 80% of newborns with SB.
  • Understanding long-term complications in adults with SB is vital for ongoing care.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze medical complications in adults with spina bifida.
  • To correlate complications with age, injury level, AIS grade, and hydrocephalus.
  • To inform follow-up examination protocols for SB patients.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort study involving 127 adult SB patients from a specialized clinic.
  • Data collection included neurological examinations and review of medical files.
  • Analysis focused on medical complications and associated factors.

Main Results:

  • 69% of patients experienced at least one medical complication.
  • Urinary tract infections (46%), scoliosis (30%), and pain (28%) were most prevalent.
  • Hydrocephalus was present in nearly 60% of patients.

Conclusions:

  • Adults with SB face significant disability and a high incidence of medical complications.
  • Common issues include urinary tract infections, scoliosis, pain, and epilepsy.
  • Findings support the need for structured medical examination routines during follow-up.
Abstract

Keywords:
EpilepsyHydrocephalusPressure soresSpina bifidaUrinary tract infection

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