The Effects of Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy on Balance and Symmetry of Gait in Children with Cerebral Palsy
OPEN ACCESS
Loading...
Author / Producer
Date
2016-04-04
Publication Type
Journal Article
ETH Bibliography
yes
Citations
Altmetric
OPEN ACCESS
Data
Rights / License
Abstract
Aim
Cerebral palsy (CP) is associated with dysfunction of the upper motor neuron and results in balance problems and asymmetry during locomotion. Selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) is a surgical procedure that results in reduced afferent neuromotor signals from the lower extremities with the aim of improving gait. Its influence on balance and symmetry has not been assessed. The aim of this prospective cohort study was to evaluate the impact of SDR on balance and symmetry during walking.
Methods
18 children (10 girls, 8 boys; age 6 years (y) 3 months (m), SD 1y 8m) with bilateral spastic CP and Gross Motor Function Classification System levels I to II underwent gait analysis before and 6 to 12 months after SDR. Results were compared to 11 typically developing children (TDC; 6 girls, 5 boys; age 6y 6m, SD 1y 11m). To analyse balance, sway velocity, radial displacement and frequency were calculated. Symmetry ratios were calculated for balance measures and spatio-temporal parameters during walking.
Results
Most spatio-temporal parameters of gait, as well as all parameters of balance, improved significantly after SDR. Preoperative values of symmetry did not vary considerably between CP and TDC group and significant postoperative improvement did not occur.
Interpretation
The reduction of afferent signalling through SDR improves gait by reducing balance problems rather than enhancing movement symmetry.
Permanent link
Publication status
published
External links
Editor
Book title
Journal / series
Volume
11 (4)
Pages / Article No.
Publisher
PLOS
Event
Edition / version
Methods
Software
Geographic location
Date collected
Date created
Subject
Organisational unit
03994 - Taylor, William R. / Taylor, William R.