Children with spina bifida: key clinical issues.

Spina bifida is the most common of the neural tube defects, which include myelomeningocele, encephalocele, and anencephaly. Spina bifida is a complex and multisystem birth defect, in which one or more vertebral arches may be incomplete. This article discusses the sensory and motor impairments, neurologic disorders, orthopedic and cognitive impairments, and skin and other problems associated with spina bifida. This article also summarizes some of the key clinical issues in the care of children with this complex birth defect.