Towards Guideline-Based Management of Tethered Cord Syndrome in Spina Bifida: A Global Health Paradigm Shift in the Era of Prenatal Surgery

An estimated 60% of the world’s population lives in Asia, where the incidence of neural tube defects is high. Aware that tethered cord syndrome (TCS) is an important comorbidity, the purpose of this systematic review was to explore the treatment of TCS among individuals living with spina bifida (SB) in Asia. MEDLINE and Embase databases were searched for relevant studies published from January 2000 to June 2018. Search terms such as ‘spinal dysraphism,’ ‘spinabifida,’ ‘diastematomyelia,’ ‘lipomeningocele,’ ‘lypomyelomeningocele,’ ‘meningomyelocele,’ and ‘tethered cord syndrome’ were used in diverse combinations. Of the 1,290 articles that were identified in accordance with PRISMA (Preferred Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, 15 Asia-based studies met the inclusion criteria. Significant differences in the diagnostic criteria and management of TCS were documented. As the surgical techniques for prenatal closure of the spinal defect continue to evolve, their adoption internationally is likely to continue. In this setting, a clear and evidence-based approach to the definition and management of TCS is essential. The recent publication by the Spina Bifida Association of America of their updated care guidelines may serve as a tool used to promote a systematized approach to diagnosing and treating TCS among individuals with SB in the region, as well as globally.