| spina bifida | A congenital limited defect in the spinal column, characterised by the absence of the vertebral arches through which the spinal membranes and spinal cord may protrude. (27 Sep 1997) |
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| spina bifida aperta | A bony defect in the vertebral column through which the meningeal membranes that cover the spinal cord and part of the spinal cord protrude. An alternative term is meningomyelocele. (12 Dec 1998) |
| spina bifida cystica | A bony defect in the vertebral column through which the meningeal membranes that cover the spinal cord and part of the spinal cord protrude. An alternative term is meningomyelocele. (12 Dec 1998) |
| spina bifida manifesta | A bony defect in the vertebral column through which the meningeal membranes that cover the spinal cord and part of the spinal cord protrude. An alternative term is meningomyelocele. (12 Dec 1998) |
| spina bifida occulta | Literally, a hidden cleft in the spine. A bony defect in the vertebral column which remains hidden, covered by skin (12 Dec 1998) |
| spinal bifida | A congenital defect in which the neural arches fail to close, so exposing the contents of the spinal canal posteriorly. Usually occurring in the lumbosacral region (lower back) of the spine. (27 Sep 1997) |