The urine will be checked for infection, blood will be checked for kidney functioning, and x-rays will be taken at times. The child will be evaluated for external collecting devices and potential surgery on the bladder. Care of the skin that has been exposed to urine and feces may require frequent washing and drying. Poor hygiene care may lead to infection, skin rashes, or skin breakdown in the diaper area. At school age, bowels may be controlled through use of rectal suppository or enema.
Many children can, therefore, attend mainstream classes.
Others need special schooling. Delayed neurological complications Problems in neurological function need to be monitored both in the new-born period and over the years. The Arnold-Chiari malformation may cause upper extremity paralysis loss of voice, swallowing, breathing control, and death. Recurrent tethering of the spinal cord at the level previously repaired at birth can occur, resulting in worse paralysis. Psychosocial adaption Potential social problems for the patient and family are numerous.