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The Myelodysplasia Clinic serves infants, children, adolescents and young adults of mid-Michigan who have the diagnosis of Spina Bifida or other neural tube defects. The most common form is myelomengocele, an opening on the spine with skin around it, with the spinal cord protruding in the sac. The degree of involvement of other functions of the body depends on what area of the spinal cord the defect occurs. Usually spina bifida results in problems with mobility, bowel and bladder control, and neurological development.
Because of the variety of issues, the team consists of specialists working together to help the child achieve maximum development and medical health. The team consists of a pediatrician, neurologist, urologist, pediatric orthopedic surgeon, psychologist, social worker, dietitian, physical therapist, occupational therapist and nurse (clinic coordinator). The child is evaluated by each team member. The team then works together to make recommendations for the child. A visit to the clinic lasts approximately 3 hours.
The clinic comes under the guidelines by the State of Michigan for Children's Multidisciplinary Services (CMS).
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