ABSTRACT
The term ‘neural tube defect’ (NTD) refers to any defect in the morphogenesis of the neural tube, ranging from anencephaly to spina bifida occulta. Spina bifida is one of the commonest congenital anomalies encountered. However, the incidence of NTDs is now on decline.1,2 The precise reason for this change is unclear. The declining rates of neural tube defects can be partially explained by increased widespread prenatal diagnostic techniques, declining birth rates, and an improved standard of living with dietary improvements. Nevertheless spina bifida when it occurs can have devastating consequences. Its management has stirred a great deal of medical, ethical and legal controversy over the past 3 decades. This management requires a team approach involving medical specialists, e.g. surgeons, neonatologists, neurologists, urologists, radiologists along with physiotherapists, social workers, psychologists, nursing staff and most of all the patient, family and society so as to enable the patient to live a meaningful life.
