Treatment for Spina Bifida

Learn about world-class treatment options for Spina Bifida in India.

Quick Links

About Spina Bifida

A birth defect where the spinal cord doesn’t form properly, leading to mobility and nerve-related challenges, often requiring surgery.

Includes

  • Myelomeningocele (Open Spina Bifida)
  • Meningocele
  • Occulta (hidden form)
  • Tethered Cord Syndrome
  • Chiari II Malformation
  • Hydrocephalus (commonly associated)
  • Orthopedic, Urologic & Bowel Complications

Top Treatment Options

Neonatal Spinal Defect Repair (Myelomeningocele Repair)

A surgical procedure performed within 24–72 hours after birth to close the spinal opening in babies born with myelomeningocele (a severe form of spina bifida). It prevents infection, protects exposed nerves, and limits further neurological damage.

Advantages
  • 1. Reduces Risk of Infection: Protects the spinal cord and prevents life-threatening infections like meningitis.
  • 2. Prevents Further Nerve Damage: Helps preserve any existing motor and sensory function.
  • 3. Improves Long-Term Outcomes: Early intervention may improve the child’s ability to walk or control bowel/bladder functions.
Limitations
  • 1. Neurological Damage Already Present Can't Be Reversed: Surgery can’t undo nerve damage that happened during pregnancy.
  • 2. Possibility of Hydrocephalus: Many children still need a VP shunt later.
  • 3. May Require Multiple Future Surgeries: Including orthopedic and urological procedures as the child grows.

Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) Shunt for Hydrocephalus

A VP shunt is a surgical procedure to treat hydrocephalus, a condition where excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) builds up in the brain. The shunt drains fluid from the brain's ventricles to the abdominal cavity, relieving pressure.

Advantages
  • 1. Relieves Brain Pressure: Quickly reduces symptoms like headaches, nausea, and drowsiness.
  • 2. Improves Brain Function: Can restore or preserve cognitive and physical function, especially in children.
  • 3. Long-Term Solution: Offers ongoing drainage of CSF, with many patients living normally with a shunt.
Limitations
  • 1. Risk of Shunt Malfunction: Can get blocked or fail, requiring revision surgery.
  • 2. Infection Risk: The shunt or surgical site can become infected.
  • 3. Lifelong Follow-Up Needed: Regular monitoring and possible multiple surgeries over a lifetime.

Orthopedic & Urologic Reconstructive Surgeries (Spina Bifida-related)

These are corrective surgeries often performed on children with Spina Bifida to improve mobility (orthopedic) and urinary function (urologic). Common procedures include tendon releases, hip/knee corrections, bladder reconstruction, and urethral diversion.

Advantages
  • 1. Improves Mobility & Independence: Orthopedic correction can help the child sit, stand, or walk more effectively.
  • 2. Enhances Bladder Control: Urologic surgeries improve continence, reducing infection risks and diaper dependence.
  • 3. Better Quality of Life: Supports overall function and self-esteem in social and school settings.
Limitations
  • 1. Multiple Surgeries May Be Needed: Especially in growing children or complex deformities.
  • 2. Risk of Infections or Complications: Especially for urologic procedures involving implants or catheters.
  • 3. Not Always Fully Corrective: May improve but not restore full function; rehabilitation is still needed.

Disclaimer: The treatment options described are for general informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Final treatment decisions are made by qualified medical professionals after clinical evaluation.

Top Hospitals for Spina Bifida

MediBridge works with India's leading hospitals in Spina Bifida, trusted globally for advanced technology, experienced specialists, and high treatment success rates.

Every patient's situation is unique—factors like the stage of illness, required treatment type, recovery needs, and budget determine which hospital is best. That's why we don't publish a generic list. Instead, we offer personalized hospital matching to ensure you get the best care at the right cost.

👉 Kindly contact our Patient Coordinator to guide you in selecting the most suitable hospital for Spina Bifida.

WhatsApp Our Patient Coordinator

Cost Estimate

Treatment Cost

Treatment Cost (USD) Cost (KES)
Neonatal Spinal Defect Repair (Myelomeningocele Repair) $4,000 – $6,500 520,000 – 845,000
Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) Shunt for Hydrocephalus $3,000 – $5,500 390,000 – 715,000
Orthopedic & Urologic Reconstructive Surgeries (Spina Bifida-related): Orthopedic (e.g., tendon release, hip correction) $3,000 – $6,000 390,000 – 780,000
Orthopedic & Urologic Reconstructive Surgeries (Spina Bifida-related): Urologic (e.g., bladder augmentation) $4,000 – $8,000 520,000 – 1,040,000
Note: Prices may slightly vary due to changing exchange rates.

Flight (NBO-DEL/MUM/BLR)

USD: $450 - $900 (Return)

KES: 58,000 - 117,000

Accommodation

USD: $800 - $1,500 (per month)

KES: 104,000 - 195,000

Post Care Costs

USD: $80 - $500 (per month)

KES: 10,400 - 65,000

Ready to Find Your Solution for Spina Bifida?

Start your journey to better health today. Our medical advisors are ready to assist you with a free, no-obligation consultation.