Encephalocele - এনকেফালোসিল
18 videos • 27 views • by Paediatric Neurosurgeon - Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman Encephalocele is a rare congenital neural tube defect in which brain tissue and/or its covering membranes (meninges) protrude through an opening in the skull. This defect results from incomplete closure of the neural tube during fetal development, typically within the first few weeks of pregnancy. Encephaloceles can occur in various regions of the skull, most commonly: Occipital region (back of the head) Frontoethmoidal region (forehead or between the eyes) Parietal or basal regions (rare) Causes and Risk Factors Neural tube closure defects during early gestation Genetic syndromes (e.g., Meckel-Gruber syndrome) Environmental factors (e.g., folic acid deficiency, maternal infections, or toxin exposure) Family history of neural tube defects Clinical Features A visible protrusion or swelling on the head, usually covered by skin or a thin membrane Neurological deficits, depending on the size and content of the encephalocele Associated abnormalities such as: Hydrocephalus Seizures Microcephaly Vision problems Developmental delays Craniofacial anomalies (especially in frontoethmoidal cases) Diagnostic Evaluation Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman ensures precise diagnosis using advanced imaging and neurological assessment: MRI of the brain and spine – To assess the content of the encephalocele sac, associated brain malformations, and hydrocephalus CT scan – To evaluate the bony defect and plan surgery Ultrasound – In prenatal cases or neonates Genetic screening – If syndromic associations are suspected Neurodevelopmental evaluation Treatment Strategy The primary treatment for encephalocele is surgical correction, aimed at protecting the brain, removing non-functional tissue, and repairing the skull defect. 🧠 Surgical Management by Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman ✅ Excision of the encephalocele sac – Removal of non-viable brain tissue and closure of the dura (protective brain membrane) ✅ Cranial reconstruction – Repair of the skull defect using autologous bone grafts or synthetic materials ✅ CSF diversion procedure (VP shunt) – In case of hydrocephalus ✅ Multistage surgery – Sometimes required in complex or syndromic cases, especially with facial involvement Postoperative Care and Prognosis Post-surgical recovery is carefully managed by Dr. Nafaur Rahman and his multidisciplinary team, focusing on: Infection control Monitoring intracranial pressure Developmental support and neuro-rehabilitation Regular follow-ups with imaging and neurological evaluation ✅ Prognosis depends on: Size and location of the encephalocele Amount of functional brain tissue involved Presence of hydrocephalus or other brain anomalies Timing and success of surgery Many children can achieve normal to near-normal development with timely intervention and proper support. Why Choose Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman? As one of Bangladesh’s foremost pediatric neurosurgeons, Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman offers: Extensive experience in neonatal and congenital brain surgeries Advanced, minimally invasive neurosurgical techniques State-of-the-art facilities at the National Institute of Neurosciences & Hospital and Bangladesh Paediatric Neurocare Centre Compassionate, family-centered care with multidisciplinary collaboration 📞 Early diagnosis and expert surgical care are essential for children with encephalocele. 👉 Visit: www.neurosurgeonnafaur.com for appointments and further information.