Which form of spina bifida is considered the most common and least severe?

Spina bifida occulta is indeed the most common and least severe form of spina bifida. This subtype occurs when there is a small defect in the bony encasement of the spinal cord, typically at the lower back, but the spinal cord and nerves are intact and not exposed. In many cases, individuals with spina bifida occulta do not experience any symptoms, and it often goes undetected unless identified incidentally through imaging studies for other reasons.

In contrast, the other types of spina bifida involve more significant spinal cord and nerve involvement, leading to more severe consequences. For instance, spina bifida cystica includes conditions like meningocele and myelomeningocele, where meninges or spinal cord tissue protrude through the vertebral defect, leading to physical impairments and neurological complications. These forms present with more pronounced clinical manifestations, often requiring surgical intervention and ongoing medical care. Thus, spina bifida occulta remains the least clinically impactful variant, making it both the most common and least severe comparison to other forms.