[Surgery of open myelomeningoceles (author's transl)].

The so-called "selection for surgery" of myelomeningoceles is compared with objective data, which are derived from experience in neonatal surgery, surgery of malformations and general surgery. In children who are not primarily operable the full range of therapeutical possibilities is used; they do no receive basis care only. This approach brings about better results than forced surgical closure of the cele.