Myelomeningocele is associated with which type of defect?

Myelomeningocele is a type of spina bifida, which is a neural tube defect that occurs during the early stages of fetal development. In myelomeningocele, the spinal cord and the surrounding membranes protrude through an opening in the vertebral column. This condition can lead to a variety of complications, including paralysis, loss of sensation, and other neurological issues, depending on the location and severity of the defect.

The association with spina bifida is critical in understanding the nature of myelomeningocele, as it is one of the most severe forms of this condition. Spina bifida encompasses a range of defects related to the neural tube, with myelomeningocele being characterized by the exposure of spinal structures which presents serious risks for the neonate, unlike the conditions of congenital heart defects, cleft palate, or clubfoot, which involve different systems and pathologies within the body. This distinction is essential for the nursing practice related to low-risk neonates, as it informs monitoring and management strategies specific to these developmental abnormalities.