CHKD's spina bifida clinic is a multi-disciplinary program for children and youth ages birth to 21 with birth defects of the spine and spinal cord. At our spina bifida clinic, families can see all specialists, complete testing and receive a variety of services during one appointment.
Conditions We Treat
Spina Bifida 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.
On the day of clinic, please bring the following: insurance cards, all braces and splints, extra continence supplies and 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.
Additional Resources
VP Shunt (ventriculoperitoneal shunt) Malfunctions
In hydrocephalus, the ventricles of the brain become enlarged with fluid of the brain and spinal cord (cerebrospinal fluid). This condition causes the brain tissue to press against the skull, causing serious nervous system (neurological) problems.
Surgical procedures of shunts allows the excess fluid to drain and relieve the pressure in the brain into the abdominal cavity. If these shunts malfunction, children must receive emergency medical attention.
Symptoms of shunt malfunction can vary from person to person but the most common are:
- Headaches
- Vomiting
- Unusual irritability
- Excessive sleepiness
- Neck pain
- Increased head size (infants)
Bowel management issues
Urological management issues
Latex Allergy in products in the hospital and home environments
Transitioning to Adulthood
The following resources and agencies can assist spina bifida patients with the transition to adulthood and adult care providers.
The Virginia Department of Rehabilitative Services
Norfolk Office
861 Glenrock Road, Suite 202
Norfolk, VA 23502
(757) 455-0831
Office Endependence Center Inc - Center for Independent Living
6300 East Virginia Beach Blvd.
Norfolk, VA 23502-2827
Phone:(757) 461-8007
Voice (757) 461-7527 TDD
National Center on Secondary Education and Transition
Phone: (612) 624-2097
We offer in-depth information about insurance in our
billing and insurance section.
