What are open neural tube defects (ONTDs)?
Open neural tube defects (ONTDs) are birth defects involving the skull and spine. The two major defects are as follows: • anencephaly (failure of the bones of the skull to close); babies with anencephaly are usually stillborn or die shortly after birth; and • spina bifida cystica (opening in the spine), which can result in nerve damage. Spina bifida can be relatively mild; however, some babies may have physical disabilities such as hydrocephaly, paralysis, and/or mental retardation. Special care throughout the pregnancy and delivery is required.
