The Myelodysplasia Clinic serves infants, children, adolescents, and young adults of Mid-Michigan who have spina bifida or other neural tube defects. The most common form is myelomengocele, an incomplete closure of the spine in which the spinal cord protrudes into a sac on the exterior of the spine.
Effects on other functions of the body depend on the location of the defect. Usually, spina bifida results in problems with mobility, bowel, and bladder control and neurological development.
Because of the variety of issues involved, a multidisciplinary team of specialists working together to help the child achieve maximum development and medical health. The team includes:
- Pediatrician
- Neurologist
- Urologist
- Pediatric orthopedic surgeon
- Psychologist
- Social worker
- Dietitian
- Physical therapist
- Occupational therapist
- Nurse (clinic coordinator)
A visit to the clinic lasts approximately four hours. The child is evaluated by each team member. The team then works together to make recommendations for the child.
The clinic comes under the guidelines by the State of Michigan for Children's Multidisciplinary Services (CMS).