Selective posterior rhizotomy for treatment of spasticity

In 1976, Fasano, et al., described a new technique of posterior rhizotomy for treatment of spasticity. They stimulated electrically fascicles of the posterior roots in spastic patients and found that some fascicles responded to stimulation with tonic muscle contractions. They cut these fascicles, preserving those with a weaker or no reaction. The present authors have used a fairly similar technique in the treatment of eight patients with spasticity of the legs and one patient with spasticity of the arm: all fascicles of the posterior roots T12-Sl and C6-8, respectively, were stimulated electrically during surgery under general anesthesia. Approximately 60% to 80% of the fascicles responded to stimulation with tonic muscle jerks, and only these fascicles were cut. All nine patients showed a good reduction of spasticity. The residual cutaneous and joint sensation remained unchanged. Motility of the limbs usually improved.