We help patients from babies to teenagers, making sure they get all the care they need in one place and at one time.
What is Spina Bifida?
Spina bifida (SPY-nuh BIF-ih-duh) is when a baby's backbone (spine) does not form normally before birth.
Spina bifida is usually apparent at birth and is a type of neural tube defect (NTD). Spina bifida can happen anywhere along the spine if the neural tube does not close all the way. When the neural tube does not close all the way, the backbone that protects the spinal cord does not form and close as it should. This often results in damage to the spinal cord and nerves.
Spina bifida might cause physical and intellectual disabilities that range from mild to severe. The severity depends on:
- The size and location of the opening in the spine
- Whether part of the spinal cord and nerves are affected
- The presence or absence of hydrocephalus
Spina Bifida Care at Inova Children's
At Inova Children’s, we bring together different medical experts to provide complete care for kids with Spina Bifida. We help patients from babies to teenagers, making sure they get all the care they need in one place and at one time. Treating Spina Bifida can be complicated, but our experienced doctors know how to create the best treatment plans for each child.
Our Spina Bifida clinic meets every two to three months. At the clinic, your child will see providers who specialize in neurosurgery, urology, orthopedic surgery, and physical therapy. These visits usually take 1-3 hours. After all the appointments, you will get a detailed summary and care plan that explains the next steps for your child's care.
8280 Willow Oaks Corporate Drive, Suite 300
Fairfax, VA 22031
(Get directions)
Phone & fax numbers
Inova Children's Neurosurgery: 571-472-4300
Inova Children’s Neurosurgery eFax: 571-665-6771
To leave a message or speak with a neurosurgery nurse: Please call the Neurosurgery RN Direct Phone: 571-472-7973 or email Inovapedsneurosurgerynurses@inova.org
Physician Assistant: Peggy Vollstad, PA-C (Email: peggy.vollstad@inova.org)
Surgery scheduling: Monique Carufel (Email: monique.carufel@inova.org)
Results:
For all test results (such as MRI, MRA, CT, or ultrasound), please use MyChart, call, or email the nurse to let them know once you have completed the test. Make sure to include the name of the facility where you had the test done.
Urgent questions after hours
If you have urgent questions that need immediate attention after 5 p.m. or on weekends, please call 571-472-7973. The answering service will connect you with the neurosurgery PA or resident on call at the Inova Fairfax ER.