Natural History of Spina Bifida Cystica and Cranium Bifidum Cysticum: Major Central Nervous System Malformations in South Wales, Part IV

Abstract

history of spina bifida cystica and cranium bifidum cysticum: the major central nervous system malformations in South Wales. Part IV. The 425 cases of spina bifida cystica and cranium bifidum cysticum born in a population of 850,000 between 1956 and 1962 (with an incidence of 4-12 per 1000 births) were followed. Most did not receive the modern treatment for the condition. Follow-up in 1968 showed that 25% were stillborn, 13% died during the first week of perinatal causes, a further 47 % died mostly of the complications of the condition, and 15% are still alive. Life

Long-Term Survival of Individuals with Myelomeningocele

“…There are, however, limited reports of life expectancy for adults with MM [5,6,7,8,9]. Previous studies have reliably plotted survival through 10–15 years of age [5, 8, 9]. Furthermore, there is scant documentation to separate life expectancy predictions based on vastly improved medical management strategies implemented in the 1970s [3], which would apply to the current national population of adolescents and young adults with MM.…”

“…There are, however, limited reports of life expectancy for adults with MM [5,6,7,8,9]. Previous studies have reliably plotted survival through 10–15 years of age [5, 8, 9].…”

A Study of Deaths and Handicap in a Consecutive Series of Spina Bifida Treated Unselectively from Birth

“…Those who survived were generally the least affected (7). In the present series the mortality rate was remarkably low but the degree ofhandicap was generally severe.…”

Changes in Medical Practice Towards the Child with Spina Bifida: Implications for Schools

“…Generally, 'nature was allowed to take its course', on the grounds that no constructive treatment was possible. About 10% of live born children survived, either with a minimal handicap, or more commonly, they were severely disabled (Laurence & Tew, 1971). Children born during this period were described by one surgeon as "wet, smelly and uncomfortable.…”

“…Since the early 1970s the number of children born in the United Kingdom with spina bifida and other neural tube defects, has declined steadily from the two to five births per 1000 (depending upon region) reported in Britain in the 1960s (Laurence & Tew, 1971).…”