Improving care for children with spina bifida

Research Approaches to Improve the Care and Outcomes of People Living with Spina Bifida- Component C

NIH-funded research University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-11142939

This study is working on a new plan to help doctors take care of the bladder and kidneys in newborns and young kids with spina bifida, so they can stay healthy as they grow up.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Birmingham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11142939 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a standardized approach to urologic management for newborns and young children with spina bifida. The study aims to create the Urologic Management to Preserve Initial Renal Function Protocol (UMPIRE Protocol), which will guide healthcare providers in preserving kidney function and managing bladder issues in these children. By following children from birth to age 10, the research seeks to validate the effectiveness of this evidence-based care model. The goal is to ensure better health outcomes and resource efficiency in treating this population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are newborns and young children diagnosed with spina bifida.

Not a fit: Patients who are older than 10 years or do not have spina bifida may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve kidney health and overall quality of life for children with spina bifida.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has laid the groundwork for this protocol, indicating potential for success in standardizing care for this condition.

Where this research is happening

Birmingham, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.