Practical problems in selection of spina bifida infants for treatment in the USA.

Seventy-five spina bifida infants were studied for results of selectin for treatment. The 31 nonoperated infants had a survival rate of 70% at 18 months, a figure higher than anticipated. Practical difficulties in adhering to the selectin protocol and controlling medical management in a large North American city were noted. Thirty-three surveyed parents of surgically repaired infants reported satisfaction with family function during the 18 months follow-up but discrepant scores increased with time.