Spinal Cord Injury Clinic

Clinic Staff:

• Pediatrician
• Pediatric Orthopedic Physician
• Urologist
• Radiologist
• Physiotherapist
• Occupational Therapist
• Social Worker
• Nurse for bladder/bowel issues

 
Spina Bifida is a birth defect caused by the absence of correct closure of the central neural tube during the early stages of pregnancy. The defect can occur along the entire central nervous system or only part of it.

The reasons for the defect are not conclusive, but it is known that there are both genetic and environmental components.

On a visit to the multidisciplinary Spina Bifida clinic, the patient passes several “stations”. At the end of the day, the treatment team will have a meeting together and pass on the recommendations on the basis of the information collected.

The treatment provided at the Clinic:

• A general assessment that includes development and the general medical condition
• Evaluation and treatment with respect to no bladder/bowel control
• Maximization of the mobility potential (walking) and provision of suitable devices, wheelchairs
• Evaluation and treatment of secondary orthopedic problems
• Prevention of urinary tract infections, kidney damage and its complications
• Prevention of the development of a curvature of the spine and other  skeletal complications
• Prevention of the development of problems of the central nervous system
• Referral of the patient to educational establishments and giving the support needed in the community, according to his individual needs.
• Consultation and support of the family in coping with a child with special needs in the community
• Rehabilitation of children with spina bifida

Important aspects of evaluation and treatment:

1. Urologic management including catherizations and medication with goals of continence appropriate to age and protection of kidney function
2. Ambulation appropriate to age and level of neurologic function including appropriate bracing, physical therapy and wheelchair where appropriate
3. Encouragement of appropriate educational setting dependent on child" s cognitive level and learning difficulties that are more frequent in these children
4. Encouragement of independence in daily activities of living and continence – dependent on age and abilities
5. Orthopedic follow up regarding limb position and back curvature to prevent complications and enable optimal ambulation
6. Monitoring for symptoms of neurologic change that could be sign of shunt malfunction (in those with shunt) or tethering that may require further neurosurgical evaluation
7. Support of family and child to deal with challenges of spina bifida both physically, emotionally, and bureaucracy

For clinic appointment:

Referrals can be sent
Email: op@alyn.org
Fax: 02-6494-313
Or call 02-6494-222 and navigate the call to the desired clinic.