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OrthopedicsPediatric Brain Center

Spina Bifida Program

Our Pediatric Spina Bifida Program is one of only a few programs in Northern California to offer comprehensive care for infants, children and teens with spina bifida and other birth defects involving the spinal cord. This includes psychosocial support services for patients and families, as well as genetic counseling and prenatal screening.

Spina bifida occurs when the spinal cord does not form properly, creating a gap in the spinal column or, in more severe cases, leaving some of the spinal cord and nerves exposed. Myelomeningocele, the most common and serious form of spina bifida, may be treated before birth with fetal surgery. Other forms can be repaired postnatally.

Experts from many fields may be involved in your child's care, including specialists in pediatric physical medicine and rehabilitation, pediatric neurosurgery, pediatric urology, pediatric orthopedics and physical therapy. The team also includes nutrition experts, nurse coordinators, social workers and school liaisons.

Our combined training and expertise allow us to manage the complex array of potential issues in spina bifida, including hydrocephalus, bowel and urinary incontinence, developmental delays and paralysis. Our goal is to create a treatment plan that minimizes disabilities and maximizes your child's ability to lead a happy, active life.



Our locations (2)

    Our team

    Awards & recognition

    • Ranked among the nation's best in 11 specialties

    • One of the nation's best for neurology & neurosurgery

    • One of the nation's best for orthopedics

    • Best in Northern California for urology

    Related conditions

    Plan your visit

    Preparing for your appointment

    What to Bring

    • Photo I.D.
    • Health insurance card
    • Insurance authorization, if required
    • Doctor's referral, if required
    • Recent test results related to your child's condition
    • List of medications, including dosages, plus any your child is allergic to
    • List of questions you may have
    • Device or paper for taking notes

    For visitors

    Before you head to the hospital, check out our guidelines for visitors and caregivers.

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    Your Stay

    We offer valuable information to help you plan for your child's upcoming hospital stay. Find out about food services, family accommodations and more.

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    Your Child's Care Team

    Our doctors, nurses, child life specialists and other providers have special training to care for children. Meet your child's care team.

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    Interpreter Services & Communication Assistance

    Interpreter services in many languages and TDDs are available for families that need help communicating with care teams. Here's how to access them.

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    Support services

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    Child Life Services

    Activity rooms, pet therapy and more to help kids feel at home.

    Child Life

    Certified child life specialists ease the stress and anxiety of childhood illness through therapeutic play, schooling and family-focused support.

    Family Amenities

    Family-friendly amenities help you relax and take care of yourself while staying close to your child. We offer lounges, kitchens, showers, breastfeeding rooms and more.

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    Social Services

    Social workers ease the effect of illness, injury and hospitalization on your family with counseling and assistance to help you navigate the challenges.

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    Activity Rooms

    Activity rooms offer a relaxed environment for children of all ages. Features include a playroom, digital arts studio and teen lounge. Find out more.

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    Art Therapy

    Art therapy helps kids and families express themselves, making it easier to cope with pediatric health issues. Group and bedside services are available.

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    Music Therapy Program

    Board-certified music therapists help kids cope with illness and the feelings that come with it. Find out about group activities and bedside therapy.

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    School Program

    Our schoolroom services and individual learning programs help children hospitalized at UCSF continue their education and get ready to return to school.

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    School Re-Entry Program

    We help kids return to school after hospitalization by educating staff and students about their needs and recommending needed accommodations. Read more.

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    Individual Playtime & Instruction

    If your child can't be around other kids for medical reasons, you can sign up for private sessions in our activity and school rooms. Find out how.

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    Interpreter Services & Communication Assistance

    Interpreter services in many languages and TDDs are available for families that need help communicating with care teams. Here's how to access them.

    Family Resource Center

    We help families cope with the challenges of childhood illness and hospitalization in a relaxing environment where parents can get a much-needed break.

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    Parent Support Program

    Weekly activities, including knitting, scrapbooking, chair massage and more, help family caregivers get a much-needed break. Find out more.

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    Patient Relations

    Patient relations reps and nursing supervisors are here to answer questions and address concerns. Learn about your rights, how to reach us and more.

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    Spiritual Care

    Chaplains help UCSF patients, families and staff cope with the spiritual and emotional challenges of childhood illness. Learn more.

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    International Services

    If you're coming to UCSF from outside the U.S., we coordinate your child's appointments and provide other helpful services. Here's how to get started.

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    It’s a bird. It’s a plane. It’s a window washer! Dressed as a superhero to clean and brighten your day.

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