Specialty Focused Recordings: Spine-107 Ashley Birch

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Ashley Birch’s presentation explains the care of children with myelomeningocele, the most common form of spina bifida, from birth through transition to adulthood. This neural tube defect can affect the brain, spinal cord, mobility, bowel and bladder function, and other systems. Early care focuses on protecting and closing the spinal defect, monitoring for hydrocephalus and Chiari-related symptoms, and assessing urinary, orthopedic, feeding, and developmental needs. Some patients may receive fetal surgery; after birth, coordinated input from neurosurgery, urology, orthopedics, rehabilitation, gastroenterology, and social work is essential. Long-term follow-up addresses hydrocephalus, tethered cord, scoliosis, bowel and bladder management, and mobility. Birch emphasizes preparing patients for adult care, which is often less coordinated than pediatric services, and highlights family support through organizations such as the Spina Bifida Association. She also calls for improved folic acid access and care resources in low- and middle-income countries.

Keywords

myelomeningocele

spina bifida

hydrocephalus

fetal surgery

tethered cord

adult transition care