A Pregnant Woman with Spina Bifida: Need for a Multidisciplinary Labor Plan

Abstract

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Women with spina bifida present both obstetrical and anesthesia challenges. They are more likely to require a caesarian delivery and traditionally neuraxial anesthesia has been avoided due to concerns of worsening neurologic disability. The case of a pregnant woman with a history of a surgically corrected lipomeningocele and tethered cord is presented to illustrate the need for a comprehensive labor plan.

Keywords

• spina bifida
• neuraxial anesthesia
• pregnancy
• complications
• labor