Myelomeningocele

• Based on strong research evidence, myelomeningocele is a condition that affects both the spinal cord and the brain in most children. • Based on some clinical research, myelomeningocele is a nonprogressive condition. Thus, any neurologic deterioration should be evaluated for a treatable cause. Priority should be given to the evaluation for increased intracranial pressure by evaluating the ventricular shunt. • Based on expert opinion, the care of children born with myelomeningocele should be provided within the medical home as well as with multidisciplinary teams of specialists. Collaboration among all providers can improve patient outcomes. • Based on strong research evidence, the birth prevalence of myelomeningocele can be decreased by the use of folate supplementation in the periconceptual period.