Spina Bifida

Spina bifida, known as the neural tube defect, is a congenital condition where the spine does not develop properly, leaving a gap in the spinal cord or surrounding vertebrae. The neural tube is a critical structure in embryonic development, forming early in pregnancy and eventually developing into the baby’s brain, spinal cord, and the protective tissues surrounding them. When the neural tube fails to close properly during the first few weeks of gestation, it can result in spina bifida. This condition can range from mild, with no visible symptoms, to severe forms that cause significant neurological and physical challenges. Surgery is often necessary to close this gap, protect the spinal cord, and prevent further complications.

Spina bifida occurs in three main forms: spina bifida occulta (mild), meningocele, and myelomeningocele(severe). Spina Bifida Occulta is the mildest form, involving a small gap in the vertebrae. Often asymptomatic, it’s commonly discovered through imaging tests like X-rays. Myelomeningocele, also known as “open spina bifida”, is the most severe type, with the spinal cord and nerves protruding through an open vertebra, forming a sac on the baby’s back. This exposes nerves and tissues. Meningocele is a rare type where a sac of spinal fluid protrudes through the spine without involving nerves.

Fetal surgery and postnatal surgery are the two main spina bifida treatment options. Choosing between prenatal or postnatal spina bifida repair involves evaluating gestational age, the location and severity of the myelomeningocele lesion, and maternal health consideration.

Eligible candidates for spina bifida treatment are infants or children with diagnosed neural tube defects requiring medical or surgical intervention, depending on the severity and type of the condition.

Eligible candidates for fetal surgery for spina bifida are mothers carrying a singleton pregnancy who are between 19 and 26 weeks gestation. The baby must not have other unrelated medical or anatomical issues, and the mother should be in good overall health without major medical conditions that could complicate the procedure or recovery.

The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Post-natal surgery takes about 3 to 4 hours. Fetal surgery may take longer due to the complexity and precision required to perform the surgery while the baby is still in the womb.

• Proper wound care is essential for both fetal and postnatal patients.
• Continuous monitoring of the baby’s neurological function is essential to ensure there are no complications, such as new neurological deficits, following the surgery
• For postnatal surgery patients, hydration and proper nutrition are crucial for healing and recovery. Feeding is monitored to ensure the baby is receiving adequate nutrition.
• Early intervention through physical therapy may be recommended for postnatal patients to support mobility and strength. For fetal surgery, the focus is more on close observation of the baby’s movement and growth after surgery.
• After surgery, babies with spina bifida are carefully observed for signs of hydrocephalus (fluid buildup in the brain), which is common and may require additional treatment.
• At Prospero Medical, we prioritize continuous care for our patients even after they return to their home countries. We follow up with them regularly for up to 6 months to 1 year post-operatively to track their recovery progress.
• It is crucial that patients report any issues or concerns they encounter during their recovery period directly to our clinic without delay, before consulting any third-party specialists. This ensures that we can address any complications promptly and provide the best possible care for our patients.

• Skilled nurses with years of experience in fetal surgical care provide post-operative care.
• The foetus is monitored via ultrasound during recovery.
• After discharge, the mother has to stay at our Propero Medical clinic for 2–3 weeks.
• Travel is determined by the mother’s condition and the availability of medical services.

Not only is Turkey one of the leading countries in a wide range of medical disciplines, but it also boasts a rich historical heritage and renowned hospitality. This unique combination makes Turkey a prime destination for various medical treatments. Choosing to undergo spina bifida surgery in Turkey offers numerous benefits, some of which may even surpass the advantages of receiving the same treatment privately in one’s home country. These benefits include:

• High level of medical expertise and well-established medical scholarship.
• State-of-the-art private hospitals equipped with cutting-edge technology.
• Personalized after-care enriched with the distinct warmth and care of Turkish hospitality.
• Competitive pricing, offering a value-for-money.
• Ideal recovery environment, where orthopedic treatment packages can be paired with physiotherapy sessions to enhance the recovery process.

When it comes to choosing the right clinic for surgery, several important factors should be considered. In the midst of commercial advertisements and social media promotions, selecting the right clinic can be a challenging task. So, what should guide your decision-making process when shortlisting options?

The key criteria for selecting a clinic include:

• Honest medical advice free from commercial interests.
• Effort to build a genuine rapport with the patient, allowing for empathy and a clear understanding of their concerns, while managing expectations.
• Prioritizing the patient’s well-being and safety above all else.

A realistic price estimation for the treatment should be based on the following factors:

• Reputation and professional standing of the clinic.
• Complexity and nature of the surgical procedure.
• Surgeon credentials and the quality of aftercare services provided.
• Clear and impartial terms and conditions, with clinical liabilities outlined in the correct legal format.

The cost of spina bifida treatment in Turkey can vary depending on the factors listed above. While the price may be a significant factor in seeking treatment abroad, prioritizing price over quality without ensuring the clinic meets these essential criteria may lead to irreversible problems and higher costs in the long term. At Prospero Medical, we strive to maintain a transparent pricing policy where every service component is clearly defined to help patients make informed decisions about their surgery. Our goal is to provide the most realistically calculated pricing aligned with the quality of medical services, the expertise of our surgeons, and the comprehensive aftercare provided at our clinics in Turkey. We are committed to offering high-quality, professional medical services that offer the best value for money