Spinal dysraphic anomalies; classification, presentation and management

Spinal dysraphism comprises an array of congenital anomalies of spinal cord development. Each of the dysraphic disorders can result in neurological, orthopaedic and urological dysfunction. This potentially confusing array of conditions is best understood from the embryological perspective. Whilst not all of these conditions are managed in the same way similar principles govern the initial investigation, multidisciplinary evaluation and long term follow up of these cases.