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Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge
Bone & Joint Staff • June 24, 2022
Pediatric Orthopedics: 3 Main Types of Spina Bifida

Spina bifida is a birth defect in which the spinal cord does not develop normally, leaving a portion exposed. This neural tube defect (NTD) occurs in a little over 1,400 births per year and can result in many possible complications, including bowel and bladder control issues, loss of sensation in the legs, paralysis, and a buildup of spinal fluid in the brain (hydrocephalus). Fortunately, modern treatment options have greatly improved the outlook for children born with spina bifida. From physical therapy to surgery, which of these treatments are best suited for a patient will largely be determined by the form of spina bifida present.


Spina Bifida Occulta

Spina bifida occulta is the most common form of spina bifida, affecting about 10 to 20 percent of the population. It is also the mildest form of the condition. It is so mild, in fact, that many patients are unaware that they have it and the very name “occulta” translates to “hidden.” In occulta, there is a malformation in one or more of the vertebrae. Typically, patients with spina bifida occulta do not experience symptoms of disability.


Meningocele Spina Bifida

Meningocele is a type of spina bifida in which meninges and spinal fluid protrude through the opening in the spine. A covering of skin may or may not be present. Symptoms may not be present at all or could lead to complete paralysis. Surgery is typically needed to repair the defect. It is normally performed during infancy with good results.


Myelomeningocele Spina Bifida

This is the most severe form of spina bifida and occurs in about 1 of every 1,000 births. It involves not only spinal fluid and meninges, but neural elements that also protrude through the spine. Patients with this form experience bladder and bowel dysfunction and paralysis below the opening that may be partial or full.


Spina Bifida Treatment in Baton Rouge

The outlook and treatment of spina bifida relies largely on which type is present and the extent of nerve involvement. Regardless of severity, the right medical provider can make all the difference for a child facing potential complications. At the Bone and Joint Clinic, we are both the area’s top pediatric orthopedists and spine specialists. To get started, click below and set up an appointment.

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The Signs and Symptoms of a Torn Meniscus

The Signs and Symptoms of a Torn Meniscus

By The Bone & Joint Clinic Staff • February 11, 2025
Damage to the meniscus, which serves as a cushion between the thigh and shin bones, can cause severe pain and impair movement.
Understanding the Most Common Types of Arthritis and Managing It at Different Life Stages

Understanding the Most Common Types of Arthritis and Managing It at Different Life Stages

By The Bone & Joint Clinic Staff • January 31, 2025
While it is often associated with aging, arthritis can affect individuals at any stage of life. Understanding the different types of arthritis and how to manage them at various life stages is key to maintaining a high quality of life.

Bone & Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge Physician Practice Transition – Effective April 1, 2025

By Bone and Joint Clinic Staff • January 30, 2025
BATON ROUGE, LA, January 30, 2025 – Effective April 1, 2025, four distinguished orthopedic surgeons from The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge will transition to Baton Rouge Orthopedic Clinic (BROC), continuing their commitment to providing high-quality orthopedic care. The physicians joining BROC are: 1. Joseph "Jeb" Broyles, MD – Specializes in joint replacement surgery, knee arthroscopy, and cartilage regeneration. 2. Arthur "Art" Hess, MD – Specializes in trauma, hip, knee, and shoulder reconstruction, and total joint replacement surgery. 3. Mat hew "Matt" Mazoch, M D – Specializes in shoulder and knee surgery. 4. Alan Schroeder, MD – Specializes in sports medicine and shoulder surgery. Beginning April 1, 2025, these physicians will operate under BROC's umbrella while continuing to see patients at The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge's current location, 7301 Hennessy Blvd. Eventually, the doctors plan to transition to BROC's campus on Bluebonnet Blvd. The estimated timeline for that move is Summer/Fall 2025. In addition, Dr. Patrick Hall will be transitioning to his own practice, Hall Podiatry, that will continue to provide quality podiatric care to patients. Dr. Hall will continue to practice at 7301 Hennessy Blvd. until May/June 2025. After that date, patients may see him at a new nearby location. Dr. Zachary Rohr and Christopher Belleau will also transition their practice to a new location effective March 31, 2025. We will update our patients once those details are finalized. Dr. Gerard Murtagh of The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge will be retiring effective March 2025. Dr. Murtagh has been a vital part of the clinic since 1988 and has significantly contributed to its success. We thank Dr. Murtagh for his many years of service to the patients of Bone & Joint Clinic. Patients are encouraged to continue scheduling appointments at The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge using the current process for the foreseeable future. To ensure a seamless transition, The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge will provide detailed information to patients in the coming weeks, including the secure transfer of medical records and continuity of care. The health and well-being of patients remain the top priority, and The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge, BROC, and Hall Podiatry are working together to make this transition as smooth as possible while maintaining uninterrupted care. For more information or to schedule an appointment, patients can contact The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge at 225-766-0050 or by visiting bjcbr.com . Patients can also reach BROC at 225-924-2424 or by visiting brortho.com .
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