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Upper extremity functional changes following selective posterior rhizotomy in children with cerebral palsy
1Neuromotor Clinic, Alberta Children's Hospital, Calgary, Canada.
Insights
Selective posterior rhizotomy surgery improved daily living functions in children with cerebral palsy. This neurosurgical procedure enhanced upper extremity function, aiding in play, balance, and endurance over a 12-month period.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Pediatric Rehabilitation
- Cerebral Palsy Research
Background:
- Spasticity in children with cerebral palsy (CP) significantly impairs motor function and therapeutic progress.
- Selective posterior rhizotomy (SPR) is a neurosurgical intervention shown to effectively reduce spasticity in select CP cases.
- Existing literature indicates SPR positively impacts upper extremity function post-surgery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of selective posterior rhizotomy on upper extremity function in pediatric cerebral palsy patients.
- To document changes in activities of daily living (ADL) over a 12-month period post-surgery.
- To identify potential areas for future research regarding SPR in CP management.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 7 children with cerebral palsy underwent selective posterior rhizotomy.
- Pre- and post-operative assessments focused on upper extremity function, including ADL, play, balance, and endurance.
- Data were collected and analyzed over a 12-month follow-up period.
Main Results:
- Children demonstrated significant improvements in activities of daily living (ADL).
- Enhanced upper extremity function was observed, contributing to better play skills.
- Improvements in balance and endurance were also noted post-surgery.
Conclusions:
- Selective posterior rhizotomy can lead to substantial functional gains in children with cerebral palsy.
- The study highlights positive changes in ADL and upper extremity function following SPR.
- Further research is recommended to explore long-term outcomes and refine therapeutic approaches post-SPR.
Abstract:
Spasticity in children with cerebral palsy may inhibit function and reduce progress in therapy. Selective posterior rhizotomy, a neurosurgical procedure, has been found to effectively reduce spasticity in selected cases. The literature suggests that positive changes in upper extremity function results from this surgery. At the Alberta Children's Hospital in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, all candidates for this surgery are screened by the neuromotor clinic team, which includes an occupational therapist, a speech therapist, and a physical therapist. This paper outlines the specific changes seen in the upper extremity functions of 7 children over a 12-month period following their surgeries. The data collected suggest the children had improved function in activities of daily living, play skills, balance, and endurance. This paper focuses on the changes in activities of daily living and recommends future direction for research in this area.