Frequently Asked Questions About Trigeminal Neuralgia

Spina bifida may develop due to many causes. It is known that deficiency of substances active during the closure of the spine in the 4th week of pregnancy (such as folic acid) or some medications used during this period may cause it. The fact that this congenital defect is seen in only 5% of relatives of babies born with spina bifida suggests that the hereditary connection is not strong. Spina bifida is seen relatively more often in mothers with epilepsy and insulin-dependent diabetes.

Neurological problems: Findings vary according to the location of the lesion (wound) and the severity of nerve involvement. If the wound is above the 3rd lumbar vertebra, complete paralysis, sensory defect, urinary-fecal incontinence occur and the patient cannot walk. If the wound is at the 4th lumbar vertebra and below, similar findings occur, but some hip and knee movements are preserved. In wounds located below the waist, foot and partially hip and knee movements are usually preserved. In lesions located in the lowest part of the waist, at the coccyx, leg and foot movements are normal, sensory defect at the wound level, and varying degrees of urinary-fecal incontinence are seen. 1. Hydrocephalus 2. Inflammation of the meninges 3. Tethered cord syndrome 4. Urinary tract problems 5. Hip dislocations and other orthopedic problems 6. Psychological problems can be summarized in this way.

Hydrocephalus is seen in more than 85% of patients with spina bifida. Hydrocephalus occurs as a result of excessive increase due to disruption of the circulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which regularly circulates around the brain and spinal cord.

Operations are often performed to preserve the current condition and prevent further problems. With operations or some treatment methods, these patients’ lives are tried to be made as close to normal as possible. Even if they cannot become completely healthy individuals, it is possible for them to live independently. However, this depends not only on medical support but also largely on the removal of barriers in social life.

For today, it is not possible to eliminate it completely. Studies in recent years have shown that this disease can be prevented to a significant extent with Folic Acid vitamin taken before pregnancy. Today, in many developed countries, all expectant mothers start taking folic acid before becoming pregnant. Because after the mother learns that she is pregnant, the time to prevent spina bifida has already passed. Detecting the anomaly while the baby is in the womb is important for informing the family and the physician. In such a pregnancy, it is also important that the delivery be performed in specialized centers where immediate intervention can be made to the baby after birth. Choosing cesarean section as the method of delivery reduces the risk of developing paralysis and the severity of paralysis. Recently, there have been studies on operating on babies while they are still in the womb.