Neural tube defect

Normal neural tube

Neural tube defect

Myelomeningocoele

Meningocoele

In this condition the spinal cord is intact and functions normally, but the defect involves an exposed bag of meningeal membranes which ruptures easily.

Meningitis and hydrocephalus are a major risk in these cases.

Rapid surgical close is necessary to avoid infections.

Meningocoele

Spina bifida occulta

This refers to a “hidden” abnormality of the developing neural tube which, if unrecognized and untreated, may later cause a serious neurological disability.

Spina bifida occulta

Spina bifida occulta

Hypospadias

Hypospadias is a condition where the urethra abnormally sited. It occurs in approximately 1 in 500 boys.

The meatus may be sited anywhere from the ventral aspect of the glans penis (the commonest type) to the penoscrotal junction.