Brachial plexus dorsal rhizotomy in the treatment of upper-limb spasticity

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of dorsal rhizotomy on upper-limb spasticity, functional improvement, coordination, and hand sensibility.

Fifteen spastic upper limbs in 13 patients were selected and prospectively studied. Brachial plexus dorsal rhizotomy was performed in which two, three, or four dorsal roots were completely sectioned. Patients were followed up for at least 12 months after surgery; the mean follow-up period was 15.6 months and the maximum period was 30 months. A remarkable relief of spasticity was observed in all cases. Recurrence was observed in only one patient and was caused by insufficient dorsal root section. Functional improvement was observed in all cases, and functional improvement in the hand was found to be related to the presence of active finger extension in the preoperative period. Even when extended dorsal root section was performed, no hand anesthesia, either total or partial, was observed. No patient lost movement ability in the postoperative period, and no ataxic limbs were observed.

Brachial plexus dorsal rhizotomy is very effective as a treatment for upper-limb spasticity and results in functional improvement without loss of sensation in the hand.