The aim of this study was to evaluate retrospectively the patients born in our hospital with neural tube defects. We investigated the demographic, prenatal, natal and postnatal features, familial risk factors, physical and radiological findings, and accompanying diseases of 45 (19 females, 26 males) patients. Incidence of neural tube defects in our hospital was shown to be higher than previous studies in our country. Meningomyelocele was seen in 42 (93%) of 45 patients, while meningocele was seen in three (7%) of 45 patients. Arnold-Chiari malformation type 2 was shown in 30 (71%) of 42 patients and Arnold-Chiari malformation type 1 was shown in only one (2%) of 42 patients. Neurologic and/or other findings were more frequently seen in patients with proximal spina bifida. We emphasize the reasons for the high incidence of spina bifida, methods of prevention and the importance of periconceptional folic acid administration.

Keywords: meningomiyelosel, spina bifida, Arnold-Chiari malformasyonu.