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Encephalocele

Children born with encephalocele suffer from a variety of brain and skull problems that can cause paralysis of the limbs, visual impairment, delays in mental and physical growth, and neurological issues. The condition begins when nerve tissue penetrates a crack in the skull and then forms a skin-covered sac on the skull’s exterior. A prenatal ultrasound can detect the birth defect. Encephalocele may be prevented with sufficient levels of folic acid during pregnancy. Treatment and prognosis depend on the location and makeup of the skin sac.

Best in Care                  

The AdventHealth Neuroscience Institute is a state-of-the-art facility for adults and children affected by encephalocele. We specialize in minimally invasive treatments that use advanced technologies to remove the skin-covered sacs caused by encephalocele. With endoscopic approaches, the surgeon removes the tumor through the nasal cavity. This technique minimizes damage to surrounding tissue and results in less scarring and pain. Recovery is quicker, because no incision is made.