Spina Bifida (Myelomeningocele)

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Spina Bifida (Myelomeningocele)

View Originalfigure 1Pregnancy terms

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Pregnancy terms

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Amniocentesis

During amniocentesis the doctor uses a needle to remove a small sample of the fluid that surrounds the fetus. This fluid is called "amniotic fluid. " пїЅ As part of the procedure, the doctor uses an ultrasound machine to get a picture of the uterus and other organs. The picture shows up on a screen and helps the doctor decide where to place the needle.

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Amniocentesis

During amniocentesis the doctor uses a needle to remove a small sample of the fluid that surrounds the fetus. This fluid is called "amniotic fluid. " пїЅ As part of the procedure, the doctor uses an ultrasound machine to get a picture of the uterus and other organs. The picture shows up on a screen and helps the doctor decide where to place the needle.

Graphic 53857 Version 3.0

Hydrocephalus treated with a shunt

Hydrocephalus is a condition that causes too much spinal fluid to build up in the brain. Spinal fluid is fluid that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord. Normally, spinal fluid moves through the brain and drains into the bloodstream (see Normal brain on right). In a person with hydrocephalus, the fluid does not drain normally, or the body makes too much fluid. Doctors treat hydrocephalus with a shunt. A shunt is a long, flexible tube that a surgeon puts into a fluid-filled space inside the brain. The tube is placed under the skin and empties into the belly or heart. The shunt helps drain the extra spinal fluid from the brain.

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Hydrocephalus treated with a shunt

Hydrocephalus is a condition that causes too much spinal fluid to build up in the brain. Spinal fluid is fluid that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord. Normally, spinal fluid moves through the brain and drains into the bloodstream (see Normal brain on right). In a person with hydrocephalus, the fluid does not drain normally, or the body makes too much fluid. Doctors treat hydrocephalus with a shunt. A shunt is a long, flexible tube that a surgeon puts into a fluid-filled space inside the brain. The tube is placed under the skin and empties into the belly or heart. The shunt helps drain the extra spinal fluid from the brain.

Graphic 83273 Version 1.0

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