Introduction: Spina bifida—A multidisciplinary perspective

Abstract

Spina bifida is the most common birth defect affecting the central nervous system (CNS) and is often characterized as the most complex birth defect compatible with survival [Liptak and El Samra, 2010]. Because of its complexity, the diagnosis and treatment of infants born with spina bifida begins before birth and through adulthood, involving multiple disciplines. Not surprisingly, research has flourished across several domains over the past decade. The purpose of this special issue of Developmental Disabilities Research Reviews is to systematically review research on spina bifida within different domains in an effort to promote integration and awareness of this research across disciplines involved directly with spina bifida. In addition, we hope to increase the awareness of contemporary research and treatment strategies for researchers and practitioners involved with other developmental disabilities. Although some aspects of spina bifida have been reviewed as part of previous issues, this is the first issue of the journal specifically devoted to spina bifida since an issue on neural tube defects edited by Sells [1998].