How does spina bifida affect the spinal cord and nerve function?

Spina bifida is a neural tube defect resulting from the failure of the vertebral column to close properly during embryonic development, leaving the spinal cord unprotected. The impact on nerve function depends on the severity of the malformation:12

• Spina bifida occulta: The vertebrae fail to enclose the cord, but the spinal cord itself remains normal in form and function, often causing no symptoms.12
• Serious forms (e.g., myelocele, meningomyelocele): The spinal cord or nerve roots may be exposed or contained within a protruding sac. In these cases, individuals often experience paralysis in body parts below the site of the defect. This frequently results in impaired or absent control of the legs, bladder, and bowels.12

These severe defects disrupt the central nervous system and can lead to complications such as hydrocephalus, which requires prompt medical intervention to prevent further damage. Surgical treatment is often utilized to address these structural issues early in life.12