Spina Bifida

Spina bifida (SB) is a common birth defect associated with varying degrees of neurocognitive, functional, and organ-system impairment and requiring lifelong condition management. In order to provide quality health care and promote quality of life for adults with SB, the adult clinician should be familiar with: (1) basic pathophysiology and management of SB-specific co-morbidities such as shunted hydrocephalus, neurogenic bowel and bladder, musculoskeletal impairments, and skin ulcers; (2) necessary adaptations needed due to physical and neurocognitive impairments associated with SB; (3) condition-specific nuances to the general care of adults with SB including weight management, sexual and reproductive health, and mental health; and (4) coordination of care with subspecialists and employment of resources needed to provide comprehensive and coordinated care for this population. Additionally, it is important for hospitalists to be familiar with the common causes of hospitalization for adults with SB as well as the common complications to monitor for in the hospital setting.