Myelomeningocele (MMC) is a spinal birth defect that occurs due to failure in the closure of the embryologic neural tube. The meninges and/or neural structures are exposed, resulting in nerve damage. MMCs are associated with significant direct morbidity as well as with Chiari II malformations and hydrocephalus. The degree of sensory and motor deficits depends on the level of the defect, with bowel and bladder function often affected. Due to the risk of infection with an exposed spinal cord, surgical repair is usually performed in the first 24 to 48 hours of life. Anesthesia for MMC repair presents a unique challenge since positioning of these patients must prevent direct pressure on the exposed neural tissue.
Early Investigations into Improving Bowel and Bladder Function in Fetal Ovine Myelomeningocele Repair
