The new clinical practice guideline for children and adolescents affected by spinal dysraphism has been developed in equal partnership between the European Association of Urology, European Society for Paediatric Urology, ERN eUROGEN, ERN ITHACA, ERN ERKNet, and the International Federation for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus, these guidelines mark a significant step forward in standardising care, improving outcomes, and ensuring a holistic, multidisciplinary approach for patients.

Our ERKNet members Michal Maternik and Johan van de Walle contributed to this important work. 

These groundbreaking guidelines address key challenges in the care of children with spinal dysraphism, ensuring a holistic approach to:

✅ Early identification of urological complications, including neurogenic bladder and voiding dysfunction.
✅ Standardised evaluation protocols, including urodynamic studies, imaging, and urinary tract monitoring.
✅ Comprehensive management strategies to prevent renal deterioration and improve kidney & bladder function.
✅ Recommendations for long-term surveillance to optimise urological outcomes into adolescence and beyond.

The full guideline provide detailed protocols and expert recommendations to support clinicians, patients, and families navigating the complexities of spinal dysraphism.

Read the full guideline here

Reference: Abrahamson et al., EAU – ESPU -ERN eUROGEN – ERN ITHACA – ERN ERKNet – IFSBH Guidelines on spinal dysraphism in children and adolescents. Clinical Guideline. EAU Guidelines Office, Arnhem,the Netherlands, 2024.