Bladder > Bladder Problems > Spinal Bifida

Spinal Bifida

Spina Bifida means 'split spine'. This split is caused by a fault in the development of the spinal cord and surrounding bones which leaves a gap or a split in the spine. The spinal cord has not been formed properly and may be damaged.

There are three main types of Spina Bifida:

Spina Bifida Cystica (cyst - like) - the visible signs are a sac or cyst, much like a large blister on the back. There are two forms:

Myelomeningocele - this is the most serious and more common of the two forms of cystic spina bifida. The cyst not only contains tissue and cerebro- spinal fluid but also nerves and part of the spinal cord. As a result, there is almost always some paralysis and loss of sensation below the damaged region. Bladder and bowel problems occur in most people with myelomeningocele as the nerves come from the bottom of the spinal cord, so are always below the lesion.

Meningocele - in this form, the sac contains meninges (tissues which cover the brain and spinal cord) and cerebro-spinal fluid, which bathes the central nervous system. Development of the spinal cord may be affected but impairment is usually less severe than myelomeningocele.

Spina Bifida Occulta (hidden form) - this is a mild form of spina bifida which is very common. Estimates vary but between 5% and 10% of people may have spina bifida occulta. For the vast majority of those that are affected, having spina bifida occulta is of no consequence whatsoever. Often people only become aware that they have spina bifida occulta after having a back x ray for an unrelated problem. There can be associated problems for a small minority of those affected. However, for some people, spina bifida occulta may cause significant difficulties, especially in their bladder & bowel function. These peole often have a sign, such as a deep dimple or tuft of long hair at the base of their spine.

Encephalocele - a sac is formed when the bones of the skull fail to develop. It may contain only cerebro -spinal fluid or part of the brain may also be present in the sac, resulting in brain damage.

It is not yet known what causes spina bifida but research continues.

Spina Bifida and bladder problems

Most people with Spina Bifida may experience problems with their bladder. It is important to make an appointment with your doctor or continence nurse about your bladder problems and ensure that you can manage your bladder problems successfully.

Good bladder management should include:

• Referral to a urologist with an interest in the neuropathic bladder (a bladder whose nerve supply may be interrupted eg as in spina bifida)
• Access to a continence adviser with knowledge of the neuropathic bladder
• An explanation of how good bladder management will protect your kidneys
• Regular (preferably yearly) urodynamics to check bladder and kidney function
• Ability to recognise urinary tract infections and know how to deal with them
• Discuss continence products management techniques with your doctor or continence nurse that may help you to effectively manage your bladder problems.

For further detailed information about Spina Bifida please contact the Association for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus (ASBAH):

Tel - 01733 555988 Website - www.asbah.org Email - info@asbah.org

The information above has been provided in association with ASBAH - Association for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus

Further help for Bladder Problems

If you are concerned about your problem and it is starting to affect your day to day life make an appointment to see your doctor, continence nurse or specialist physiotherapist. A continence nurse and specialist physiotherapist are healthcare professionals who specialise in bladder and bowel problems. You can also call our specialist helpline on 0845 345 0165 (24 hour answerphone) for medical advice, or visit our Continence Clinic Database facility in the Specialist Services section to find out where your nearest clinic is or call our general enquiries line on 01536 533255 for details.

For information on specific continence problems relating to the bladder, including treatment and product options to help manage symptoms, please use the drop down menu below.