Implications of a selective policy in the management of spina bifida.
Of 307 patients with myelomeningocele 132 were treated nonoperatively during the 6 yr period from 1973 to 1978. Of the nonoperatively managed patients, 86% died within 1 yr. The policy of nonoperative management was changed to one of active intervention in 25% of the infants. Despite this a large number died.
D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007360:Intelligence; D007494:Ireland; D007902:Length of Stay; D016136:Spina Bifida Occulta / Q000401:mortality / Q000601:surgery / Q000628:therapy*