Hydrocephalus in Children with Spina Bifida

ABSTRACT

A prospective study consisting of 50 infants having spina bifida and cranium bifidum and relationship of hydrocephalus was carried out. The male preponderance was obvious (1.71) with majority of infants being less than 3 months. The presenting complaint in almost all the children was swelling on back or head. Lumbar spine was affected most commonly with 36% children having lesion at this site followed by lumbosacral (20%) and occiptal (16%). Neuromuscular deficit was present in 32% cases. Clinical evidence of hydrocephalus was seen in 22% children. X-ray skull was suggestive of hydrocephalus in 22% cases. Ultrasound examination of skull confirmed the diagnosis in 52% cases. Hydrocephalus had no specific relationship with site of lesion. It was more commonly associated with neurological deficit. Sonographic examination is relatively cheaper and invaluable investigation. and should be done routinely in patients with spina bifida.