What is spina bifida? Spina bifida, also called myelodysplasia,
is a condition in which there is abnormal development of the
back bones, spinal cord, surrounding nerves, and the fluid-
filled sac that surrounds the spinal cord. This neurological
condition can cause a portion of the spinal cord and the
surrounding structures to develop outside, instead of inside,
the body. The defect can occur anywhere along the spine. What
are the types of spina bifida? The types of spina bifida include
the following: Spina bifida occulta - a mild form of spina
bifida in which the spinal cord and the surrounding structures
remain inside the baby, but the back bones in the lower back
area fail to form normally. There may be a hairy patch, dimple,
or birthmark over the area of the defect. Other times, there may
be no abnormalities in the area. Meningocele - a moderate form
of spina bifida in which a fluid-filled sac is visible outside
of the back area. The sac does not contain the spinal cord or
nerves. Myelomeningocele - a seve