SPINA BIFIDA

Spina Bifida describes a group of neural tube defects (NTD’s) that occur when the baby’s developing spine (neural tube) fails to close properly. When most people speak of SB, they are referring to the most common and also most severe form, called myelomeningocele, which causes the spinal nerves to bulge through an opening in the back. Myelomeningocele usually occurs in the lowest part of the spine but can occur at any level. Spina Bifida is the most common permanently disabling birth defect that is compatible with living into adulthood. -Spina Bifida Association 

Learn more about Spina Bifida.

Spina Bifida (Dakota has myelomeningocele) can be corrected with Fetal Surgery or with Postnatal Surgery.

Dakota and I underwent Fetal Surgery at 24 weeks and 3 days gestation at the Colorado Fetal Care Center in Denver.

Learn more about Fetal Surgery.