Various forms of spina bifida are known as meningomyelocele, myelomeningocele, spina bifida aperta, open spina bifida, myelodysplasia, spinal dysraphism, spinal rachischisis, myelocele, and meningocele.
Incomplete closure causes protrusion of the spinal cord and meninges, called meningomyelocele.
Prenatal diagnosis of neural tube defects causing anencephaly or meningomyelocele is possible through ultrasound examination and maternal blood testing for alpha-fetoprotein, which is almost always elevated.
Surgical treatment of meningomyelocele and encephalocele may be successful, with lasting neurological deficiencies that vary in severity.