Current management of the infant with myelomeningocele

Abstract

Infants with myelomeningocele continue to be a management dilemma for urologists. This article discusses many of the current questions that surround the newborn with myelomeningocele. What radiologic studies should be performed and when? How does the clinician determine if bladder drainage is adequate or requires altering? If a problem is identified what are the surgical options? When should urodynamics be performed? Ultimately how one manages, follows and initiates treatments in the newborn will have a significant effect on the long-term morbidity seen in this population of children.