Cerebral palsy: results of surgical releases augmented with electrical stimulation: a case study

The purpose of this case study was to evaluate a patient with diplegic cerebral palsy who underwent soft tissue lengthening augmented with intramuscular electrical stimulation. This is a prospective case study, pre- and post-test design. The patient underwent soft tissue lengthenings of the lower extremities, augmented with placement of intramuscular neuromuscular electrodes. Baseline, 4-, 8-, and 12-month follow-up data were obtained which included range of motion, manual muscle strength testing, motion analysis, oxygen consumption, Gross Motor Function Measure, and Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory. All measured parameters, except knee extensor strength, improved during the postoperative period (baseline to 4-month follow-up) and continued to improve during the rehabilitative period (4-12 month follow-up), despite no formal therapy or home exercise program during this period. We conclude that surgical releases augmented with electrical stimulation resulted in a satisfactory clinic outcome, and may offer a new approach to the treatment of patients with cerebral palsy.