Multidisciplinary Clinic for Patients with Spina Bifida

At our spina bifida clinic, families can see all specialists, complete testing and receive a variety of services during one appointment.  Our physicians are specially trained and highly skilled in treating patients with spina bifida.  We also have a registered nurse that serves as the program coordinator dedicated to guiding our families through our clinic. 

Clinic meets on the first Wednesday of every month, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., on the 5th floor of the hospital at 601 Children's Lane in Norfolk by appointment only.  

On the day of clinic, please bring the following:

• Insurance cards, 
• All braces and splints
• Extra continence supplies
• A list of all medications and dosages

Some patients may be scheduled for diagnostic testing in the radiology department the morning of the clinic. Children with spina bifida may be referred for any of the following tests: CT Scan, MRI, ultrasound, urodynamic study and/or VCUG.  Our program coordinator will work with you to ensure all required testing is set up prior to your appointment. 

Spina bifida

• Myelomeningocele - This is the most severe type of spina bifida in which a baby is born with a gap in the bones of the spine. This can cause moderate to severe disabilities, such as full or partial paralysis below the spinal opening, bladder, and bowel dysfunction.

• Meningocele - A birth defect in which the baby's spinal cord does not develop properly. Symptoms include an abnormal tuft of hair, a birthmark, or protruding spinal cord tissue, which may cause physical disabilities. 

• Lipomyeloemeningocele - A rare defect that causes a fatty mass under the skin that is connected to the end of the spinal cord. This can tether or pull on the spinal cord as the child grows, causing neurologic problems including weakness, bladder, and bowel dysfunction.