Question

1. How does direct trauma to the spinal cord happen while in utero in regards to spina bifida?

2. Explain the diagnostic process required in the prenatal period to determine the treatment options that exist for a family faced with the diagnosis of Spina Bifida.

3.Why is deep general anesthesia required during surgery? Please explain the rationale for your answer.

Answer 1

1.

• Direct trauma as exposed neural placode collides or impacts against uterine wall lead to spina bifida.
• A neurological condition called tethered spinal cord in which tissue attachments that limit the movement of spinal cord within spinal column. These attachments cause abnormal stretching spinal cord leading to spinal cord injuring. This syndrome is closely associated with spina bifida

2. Diagnosing criteria

A. Blood test

1. Maternal blood test- Maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein test (AFP) – Multiple follow up for confirmation.

B. Ultrasound- Most accurate method to detect and assess the severity– During first or second trimester.

C. Amniocentesis

3.  

There are 4 types of anesthesia

· Local anesthesia

· Regional anesthesia

· General anesthesia

· Sedation

In certain surgeries

· Patient is to be kept in unconsciousness and

· In condition when local or regional anesthesia are inadequate for proper anesthesia,

Deep General anesthesia is required.