Long-term outcome in surgically treated spina bifida cystica

This report describes the long-term operative outcome of 72 patients with spina bifida cystica. The period of follow-up was between 4 and 20 years. In our series, 17 patients died, with the mortality rate increasing as the lesions were more rostral. All cases involving only a meningocele are living without handicap. The cases of spina bifida cystica with hydrocephalus had higher morbidity and mortality when compared to those without hydrocephalus. We conclude that the rostro-caudal location, the content of the sac, and whether there is associated hydrocephalus are important factors influencing the long-term prognosis of spina bifida cystica.