Treatment+and+outlook

= How can Spina Bifida be treated? = = =

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 * Doctors recommend having a blood test done 15 to 20 weeks for any women who are pregnant. They can test by using ultrasound to screen for Spina Bifida or do amniocentesis. The ultrasound bounces off high frequent sound waves off the baby.**=====

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 * If the mom has high levels of AFP but the ultrasound was normal, the doctors offer amniocentsis. During amniocentsis the doctors remove a sample of Amniotic Fluid from around the baby. Then they test it to see if the baby will likely have Spina Bifida.**=====

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 * Doctors noticed that the nerve function seems to worsen after birth. It would be better to have surgery while the baby is in the uterus.****﻿Babies with myelomeningocele are able to exercise. This will prepare their legs for braces or crutches later in life.**=====