Posted by Dr. Magnus on March 17, 2003 at 22:38:34:
MEDICAL INFORMATION On SCOLIOSIS and SPINA BIFIDA Requested by Sidney
To Sidney, Scoliosis is a deformity in the spinal column which needs orthopedic correction; and Spinal
Bifida is a congenital defect in the spinal vertebrae which needs correction, when possible, by a pediatric plastic surgeon.
These are not medical problems which can be helped with medications of any kind.
I hope the information gives you the knowledge you are seeking.
Dr. Magnus
SCOLIOSIS
This is a noticeable lateral deviation of the normally straight vertical bone of the spine. Depending on the cause, there may or may not be only one curve, or there may be the primary curve and other compensatory curves.
It may be fixed (stuck) when muscles and/or bone deformity is involved; or allow “mobility” when there is unequal muscle contraction.
The causes are many, including rheumatism of the back muscle, inflammatory disease of the vertebrae, paralysis of some back muscles, improper posture habit and others.
Scoliosis may affect the upper, mid or lower spine; or a combination of all three areas. Depending upon its location and severity, potential complications include moderate to severe movement disability, heart and lung functional compromise, and others.
SPINA BIFIDA
This is an embryologic failure of one or more vertebral arches to close; characterized by defective closure of the bony-covering of the spinal cord. As a result, the spinal cord and its covering membrane (meninges) may or may not protrude through the defect. The lower back (lumbosacrum) is the most frequently affected area.
There are several manifestations, classified on the bases of the degree and pattern of deformity.
In spina bifida occulta, the defective closure is present, but there is no protrusion of the spinal cord or the meninges, and in almost if not all, there are no associated symptoms.
In spina bifida cystica, a cystic swelling protrudes through the defect, and it is filled with spinal fluid. Occasionally it is filled with the meninges; and it is called meningocele. When it is filled with the spinal cord it is called myelocele; and when it is filled with both the meninges and the spinal cord it is called meningomyelocele.
Severe spina bifida is associated with serious complications including disability with walking, bladder and bowel control; and others.