The Effect of Early Surgery on Urological Outcomes in Children Diagnosed with Occult Spinal Dysraphism

Abstract

Background: Spinal dysraphism refers to midline abnormalities of the back, from skin to vertebral column. It includes all lesions that are the consequence of incomplete formation of midline structures of the dorsum. It is classified as open form (operta) or closed form (occulta). Aim of the Work: We aim to discuss urological outcomes of early surgery in occult spinal dysraphism and address information in the literature regarding preoperative work up, timing of intervention, and expectations after surgery. Patients and Methods: All available research studies addressing the topic e.g. Randomized Controlled Trials, Cohort, Case- control series, and reviews. We will perform a systematic literature review via Pub Med, Cochrane library, EMBASE. The review will be guided by the 'Cochrane systematic review of interventions' books and Pub med tutorials, under supervision of the director and co-directors mentioned in the beginning of this protocol. Additional studies will be identified by contacting clinical experts and searching bibliographies and abstracts presented at the Egyptian and American society of Neurosurgeons.