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Spina Bifida

The Spina Bifida Clinic is a multidisciplinary clinic that treats patients with severe spine, orthopedic, neurosurgical, developmental, and urological
disorders. Our team is dedicated to providing patients with the highest level of care. This includes the latest techniques in physical therapy, surgery and microsurgery by a fellowship trained, board-certified pediatric urologist, along with neurosurgeons and orthopedic surgeons who work as a team to provide the best clinical outcomes for children

Spina Bifida

Spina Bifida Diagnosis and Treatment - El Paso Children's Hospital

Dr. Makoshi

There was a time many years ago when a pediatric spina bifida diagnosis in West Texas meant a less able, more painful life. But with new techniques and technologies, kids with spina bifida are regaining what might have been out of reach only a few decades ago.

Are you a member of a West Texas family facing the challenge of a child with spina bifida? Then you need powerful friends, with the next-generation tools and techniques to help your child heal. You’ll find them right here, at El Paso Children’s Hospital. Our team is committed to helping children, with a special dedication to improving outcomes for kids with congenital spine issues like spina bifida.

Someday, pediatric medicine will help make sure that not one more family has square off against this crippling disease. For now, no family in West Texas has to face it alone. Read on for what you need to know about spina bifida and the treatment options we offer.

Are There Different Types of Spina Bifida?

Myelomeningocele (also called "open spina bifida") is the most severe form of spina bifida. Like babies with meningocele, children with myelomeningocele have a visible, fluid-filled sac on their back. But in these cases, the sac contains nerves and part of the spinal cord. Myelomeningocele often causes some degree of damage to these crucial pathways, disrupting nerve signals. That can cause a range of problems, including total or partial paralysis of the limbs, bowel and bladder issues and other functional problems.


What Are the Symptoms of Pediatric Spina Bifida?

Skeletal issues like scoliosis or clubfoot.

Bowel and/or bladder incontinence.

Recurring UTI's (urinary tract infections).

Weakness or inability to move the legs, which can impact the ability to stand or walk.

Increased risk of latex allergy.

Problems maintaining balance.

Muscle spasms, stiffness or difficulty coordinating muscle movements .

Recurring sores or skin infections.

Hydrocephalus, which is an enlargement of the head caused by the buildup of cerebrospinal fluid, which can cause learning disabilities and developmental issues in some cases.

El Paso Children's Multispecialty Center

5400 Alameda Avenue
El Paso, TX 79905
ph: 915.242.8402
fax: 915.242.8404

Monday – Friday
8:00am – 5:00pm

Multispecialty Center
5400 Alameda Avenue
El Paso, Texas 79905
Phone 915-242-8402

Monday - Friday
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Medical Staff

Dr. Makoshi
Ziyad Makoshi, MBBS, MSc, FRCSC, FAANS
Pediatric Neurosurgeon

Conditions Treated