Congenital- Spina Bifeda

Question 1

Def.

Answer 1

• 2 types
• SB Vera- manifest, wide defect in posterior neural arch at multiple levels
• SB Occulta- failure of lamina to fuse posteriorly

N.B. When at C1 -> termed a spondylosis, because there is no SP here

Question 2

SB Occulta

Answer 2

• failure of the lamina to fuse posteriorly, usually with a cleft spinous process.
• SBO is clinically insignificant and commonly occurs at L5/S1.

Question 3

SB Vera

Answer 3

• may allow meninges and/or spinal cord to protrude.
• About 60% cases appear to be genetic.
• Elevated alpha fetoprotein in amniotic fluid allows in utero diagnosis.

Question 4

Radiol Fx- SBO

Answer 4

AP projection give optimal view;

• see lucent cleft between laminae -> small or absent SP at that level.
• Lateral projection may display absence of spinolaminar junction line.

Question 5

Radiol Fx- SBV

Answer 5

AP and lateral projections:

• wide defect in posterior neural arch at multiple levels;
• possible soft tissue mass posterior to the spine.