Spina Bifida is congenital disorder involving the failure of the vertebral canal to close before birth. The condition results in malformation of the spinal cord, severely impairing spinal alignment and the nerves in the lumbar and sacral areas. Babies born with spina bifida may be paralyzed and lack sensory perception, and experience problems with bladder and bowel function and limb control. To prevent further nerve damage and infection, doctors operate on babies with spina bifida to close the opening of the back, which leaves the baby with a tethered spinal cord and scar tissue. Patients with spina bifida typically need braces and other equipment to walk.
