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Eur J Pediatr Surg 1994; 4: 32-34
DOI: 10.1055/s-2008-1066151
Original article

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Does Caesarean Section Delivery Improve Neurological Outcome in Open Spina Bifida?

A. E. Hill , F.  Beattie
  • The Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, 180 Falls Road, Belfast BT12 6BE, N. Ireland
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Publication History

Publication Date:
25 March 2008 (online)

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Abstract

The antenatal diagnosis of fetuses with myelomeningocele (MMC) has focused the attention of those involved in the perinatal care on caesarean section delivery as a possible method of preserving neurological function. In this paper 25 infants with MMC were studied, 10 delivered by pre-labour caesarean section (PL C/S), and 15 by other methods. No difference in motor function was observed post natally with 50 % of each group having neurological levels below L3. The PL C/S group was more heterogeneous. The feasability of selecting a group of less impaired fetuses with good in utero leg movements for PL C/S in order to preserve neurological function depends on the ability of fetal USS to predict post natal neurological function. This preliminary report leaves unanswered the question whether C/S delivery improves neurological outcome in selected cases of open spina bifida.

Key words

Neural tube defect - Caesarean section - Outcome

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