Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 10, 2026
Neuronavigation and Laparoscopy Guided Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Insertion for the Treatment of Hydrocephalus
Published on: October 14, 2022
The prognosis of occipital encephalocele
Insights
Occipital cranium bifidum, a birth defect, shows better survival and outcomes for meningocele cases compared to encephalocele. Poor prognosis is linked to brain tissue in the sac and microcephaly.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pediatrics
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Occipital cranium bifidum is a severe congenital anomaly.
- It encompasses conditions like meningocele and encephalocele.
- Understanding prognostic factors is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the outcomes of occipital cranium bifidum cases.
- To compare the prognosis of meningocele versus encephalocele.
- To identify factors influencing survival and neurological development.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series analysis.
- Follow-up of 147 patients with occipital cranium bifidum.
- Data collection on diagnosis, treatment, survival, and functional status.
Main Results:
- Females constituted 69% of the 147 cases.
- Meningocele patients had a 90% survival rate, with 48% normal outcomes.
- Encephalocele patients had a 43% survival rate, with only 4% normal outcomes.
- Cerebral tissue in the sac and microcephaly were associated with poor prognosis.
Conclusions:
- Meningocele generally has a better prognosis than encephalocele.
- Early identification of poor prognostic indicators like cerebral tissue and microcephaly is vital.
- Further research into management strategies for encephalocele is warranted.
Abstract:
147 cases of occipital cranium bifidum have been followed: 32 had meningoceles and 115 encephaloceles. Females predominated (69%). 90% of the meningocele and 43% of the encephalocele patients survived. Of the former 48% are normal and 16% are both physically and mentally handicapped. Of the latter only 4% are normal and 26% are physically and mentally handicapped. Cerebral tissue in the sac and associated microcephaly are bad prognostic features.
