Spina bifida

Spina bifida, congenital deformity in which a fissure in the lower part of the spine allows the spinal membranes to protrude. The condition leads to a variable degree of leg paralysis and loss of urine and feces sphincter control; it may be associated with other malformation, particularly hydrocephalus. Mild cases can be treated by surgical closure of the defect, and orthopedic procedures can be applied to balance muscle power.