Spinal dysraphism and tethered cord syndrome

Abstract

Spinal dysraphism is a common birth defect that causes different kinds of secondary impairments, including joint deformities, reduced mobility, and bowel or bladder dysfunction. Various dysraphic spinal abnormalities result in tethered cord syndrome, a progressive form of neurological deterioration that results from spinal cord tethering. The surgery and management of children who have spinal dysraphism require multidisciplinary care and long-term follow-up by multiple specialists in birth defects. This article reviews the clinical presentation, pathophysiology, diagnostic strategies, and therapeutic management of spinal dysraphism in infancy.