diagnosed with spina bifida may experience in some form "varying degrees of paralysis, loss of sensation in the lower limbs, difficulties with bowel and bladder management, hydrocephalus, learning disabilities and latex allergies." "Surgery can be performed within 24 hours after birth to minimize the risk of infection to the child" (Sandler 45) and to help preserve the existing function in the spinal cord. "Because of the paralysis resulting from the damage to the spinal cord, people born with spina bifida may need surgeries and other extensive medical care," (SBAA).
             "In general, the three types of spina bifida (from mild to severe) are: Spina Bifida Occulta: There is an opening in one or two of the vertebrae (bones) of the spinal column without apparent damage to the spinal cord. Meningocele: The meninges, or protective covering around the spinal cord, has pushed out through the opening in the vertebrae in a sac called the "meningocele." However, the spinal cord remains intact. This form can be repaired with little or no damage to the nerve pathways. Myelomeningocele: This is the most severe form of spina bifida, in which a portion of the spinal cord itself protrudes through the back. In some cases, sacs are covered with skin, in others, tissue and nerves are exposed. Generally, people use the terms "spina Bifida" and "myelomeningocele" interchangeably. Approximately 40% of all Americans may have spina bifida occulta, but because they experience little or no symptoms, very few of them ever know they even have it. The other two types of spina bifida, meningocele and myelomeningocele, are known collectively as "spina bifida manifesta" and occur in approximately one out of every thousand births. Of these infants born with "spina bifida manifesta," about 4% have the meningocele form, while about 96% have the myelomeningocele form," (National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities 1). Occasionally children with spin...