Spinal Dysraphic Malformations: Science and Surgery

This book includes detailed discussions of the latest science in the embryogenesis of spinal dysraphic malformations, and a well-illustrated guide to their surgical repair. In addition to covering the actual malformations, and because, with the probable exception of prenatal closure of the open neural tube defect, all surgical repairs of other dysraphic malformations require sophisticated intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM), an in-depth chapter is devoted to the physics, physiology, techniques, parameters and patterns of electrophysiological responses in representative dysraphic lesions. As the evaluation of bladder function is crucial for the assessment of the pre-operative clinical status and long-term outcome of the patient with spinal dysraphism, an entire chapter is devoted to the neurophysiology of micturition, the symptoms of neuropathic bladder, and to the explanation of the complexities of proper urodynamics. The book will be an invaluable tool for paediatric neurosurgical consultants interested in spinal dysraphism and for fellows and other trainees in this discipline.