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Instrumented gait analysis after selective dorsal rhizotomy.
Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology
|December 1, 1990
Summary
Selective dorsal rhizotomy in cerebral palsy patients reduced spasticity and improved walking dynamics. While gait improved, muscle activation patterns remained unchanged post-surgery.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Orthopedics
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Cerebral palsy (CP) often involves spasticity affecting gait.
- Selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) is a surgical option to reduce spasticity.
- Quantitative gait analysis is crucial for assessing SDR outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantitatively evaluate the effects of SDR on ambulatory CP patients.
- To compare gait parameters before and after SDR surgery.
Main Methods:
- Instrumental gait analysis in 14 CP patients (4.6-23.5 years).
- Analysis included stride characteristics, EMG, foot-floor contact, and joint kinematics.
- Patients were assessed pre-surgery and 6-14 months post-surgery.
Main Results:
- Independent ambulators maintained their functional level.
- One assisted ambulator progressed to independent walking; others continued using assistive devices.
- SDR effectively reduced spasticity and enhanced gait dynamics.
Conclusions:
- Selective dorsal rhizotomy positively impacts gait dynamics in ambulatory CP patients.
- The surgery reduces spasticity but does not alter underlying muscle activation during walking.
- Gait analysis provides objective measures for assessing SDR efficacy in CP management.