Spinal dysraphism: diagnosis and management

Spinal dysraphism is an umbrella term for a group of congenital conditions resulting from abnormal development of the spinal cord and spine. They are generally classified as open and closed forms, depending on whether the neural tissue is directly exposed to the external environment or is covered by skin. These conditions, typically diagnosed in infancy, arise from defects in neural tube closure during embryonic development. Although the severity and clinical picture vary, all forms of spinal dysraphism have the potential to cause significant neurological and neurodevelopmental problems, often accompanied by orthopedic, urological and gastrointestinal complications. This condition can occur in isolated cases or as part of a genetic syndrome. Timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial for the prognosis of patients. Additionally, the involvement of other organs and systems necessitates a multidisciplinary approach to patient management. This review explores the modern classification of spinal dysraphism, outlines the key clinical manifestations of various anomalies, and provides recommendations for diagnosis, treatment, and long-term follow-up.