Myelomeningocele repair: Surgical management based on a 30-year experience

Background Myelomeningocele (MMC) is a rare but severe spinal defect resulting from a failed neurulation process. Surgical repair is a delicate procedure that needs accurate neuroanatomical knowledge and adequate surgical planning. Materials and Methods The authors report on the main problems of the surgical management of this type of dysraphism. The technique used for reconstruction, and the management strategies, are analyzed according to the authors’ experience with more than 600 cases, in comparison with the relevant literature. Results Tip and tricks of more than 30 years of MMC surgical management are reported, with special mention of the timing of surgery, the management of early hydrocephalus, and the principles of the repair, from the dissection to the closure of five separate layers (arachnoid, dura, muscular fascia, subcutaneous layer, skin). Conclusions Accuracy and attention to the reconstruction are crucial for achieving good results and avoiding perioperative complications.