Hip displacement in relation to age and gross motor function in children with cerebral palsy

Longitudinal relationship between hip displacement and hip function in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy: A scoping review

AIM

To identify, describe, and synthesize available evidence on the longitudinal relationship between hip displacement and hip function, using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework, in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP) aged up to 18 years.

METHOD

Five databases were searched systematically from inception to May 2022. Study and sample characteristics, and hip displacement and hip function measures, mapped to the ICF domains, were extracted for narrative synthesis.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine studies were included: four longitudinal registry-based studies; 12 prospective studies; 12 retrospective studies; and one randomized controlled trial. Sample size ranged from 11 to 267. Twenty-seven (93%) studies entailed an intervention: surgery (n = 16); rehabilitation (n = 2); nerve block or botulinum neurotoxin A injection (n = 4); and combined surgery and injection (n = 2). Twenty-six studies (90%) reported outcomes at the body structure and function and impairment domain of the ICF; 17 (59%) reported outcomes in the activity domain; and three (10%) included participation measures. The most common hip displacement measure was Reimers' migration percentage (79%).

INTERPRETATION

Because of the inclusion of interventions in most studies, and the preponderance of retrospective studies, the relationship between hip displacement and hip function in CP is unclear. More high-quality prospective evidence on the natural history of hip displacement, and its effect on function, is needed to improve population-wide screening of children with CP.

Satisfactory long-term functional and radiological outcomes following hip reconstructive surgery in children with cerebral palsy

PurposeThis study aimed to evaluate long-term functional and radiological outcomes as well as parents' perception of change and overall satisfaction following hip reconstructive surgery in children with cerebral palsy (CP).MethodsMedical charts of children between three and 18 years of age with CP who had surgery between 1993 and 2014 by the same surgeon were reviewed. The study sample consisted of 44 children (Gross Motor Function Classification System levels I-V) aged 2-18 years representing 60 hips. Mean follow-up was 8.4 years [1.8-17.5]. A final follow-up evaluation was held to obtain post-operative anteroposterior pelvic radiographs and administer patient-reported outcomes to the caregivers.ResultsCare and Comfort Hypertonicity Questionnaire scores showed that 74-79% of caregivers reported no difficulty post-surgery in terms of child's pain or discomfort during position changes, when participating in general activities, or during sleep. The Lower Extremity Parent-Rated Change Form showed that 58-76% of caregivers reported a better status in their child's overall health, leg function, activity level, and pain post-surgery. Seventy-six percent of the caregivers indicated satisfaction with the overall changes since the surgery. For the 45 hips with both pre-operative and follow-up radiological outcomes, migration percentage improved significantly (p < 0.001) by 36.7%, and there was a 62.2% increase in the number of hips that were located post-operatively compared to pre-operatively. Acetabular coverage improved significantly (p < 0.001) from non-covered to covered in 46.7% of the hips and Shenton's line improved significantly (p < 0.001) from non-intact to intact in 66.7% of the hips.ConclusionHip reconstructive surgery improved long-term functional and radiological outcomes, as well as quality of life for children and caregivers, while changes were perceived as satisfactory to the families. Evaluating pain, function, and satisfaction is important to measure the impact of hip reconstructive surgery on daily life.

Hip surveillance in cerebral palsy: Review of clinical practice in a tertiary children's hospital using electronic health record linkage

BACKGROUND

Children with cerebral palsy (CP) can develop neuromuscular hip dysplasia (NHD) and radiographic surveillance is recommended, guided by gross motor function classification system (GMFCS) level. This study evaluated the clinical practice of hip surveillance for NHD in a children's hospital and risk factors for abnormal first and subsequent X-rays.

METHOD

Health data were extracted for 159 participants with CP, 98 male, 52 GMFCS level IV or V (birth years 2008-2018) and linked to electronic radiology datasets.

RESULTS

The median age at diagnosis of CP was 18 months (1-96 months). Thirty-eight participants had X-rays prior to diagnosis and 10 (6%) had no X-ray. Seventy-nine of 111 children classified as GMFCS levels II to V (71%) met both 2008 and 2020 Australian Hip Surveillance Guidelines (AHSG) having the first hip X-ray by 24 months of age. Sixteen participants (11%) had abnormal first hip X-ray (subluxation or migration percentage >30% in 14; MP 90%-100% or dislocation in 2). Univariate analyses showed NHD (MP > 30%) or dislocation at first X-ray was associated with GMFCS IV or V (OR = 6.98 (2.12-22.94), P = 0.001); >4 months between diagnosis and first hip X-ray (OR = 5.60 (1.52-20.59), P < 0.0009) and more common in NZ Māori children than non-Māori children (OR = 3.71 (1.25-11.01), P = 0.012).

CONCLUSION

Surveillance for NHD did not follow guidelines in almost a third of children, with delays in screening associated with greater risk of NHD at first X-ray. Inequities found for Indigenous NZ Māori children with CP require further investigation and stakeholder consultation.

GUIDANCE study: guided growth of the proximal femur to prevent further hip migration in patients with cerebral palsy-study protocol for a multicentre randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Up to one-third of patients with cerebral palsy (CP) develop hip migration. Current standard care for early hip migration is bilateral adductor-psoas tenotomy; however, the failure rate is relatively high with 34%-74% of patients with CP requiring secondary hip surgery. Using temporary medial hemiepiphysiodesis of the proximal femur (TMH-PF), the morphology of the hip can be changed. This technique aims to reduce further hip migration and the need for secondary surgical management. Further research is necessary to determine the benefit of TMH-PF in addition to adductor-psoas tenotomy. The hypothesis of this study is that TMH-PF combined with adductor-psoas release decreases the chance of progressive hip migration and the need for secondary hip surgery, compared with adductor-psoas release alone.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

The GUIDANCE study is an open-label multicentre randomised controlled trial. Patients with CP aged between 2 and 8 years, with spastic CP-Gross Motor Function Classification System IV or V, hip abduction ≤40° and hip migration of 30%-50% can be included in this trial. They will be randomised into a control arm (adductor-psoas tenotomy) or an intervention arm (adductor-psoas tenotomy+TMH PH). The primary outcome will be treatment failure at 5-year follow-up. At 2-year follow-up a preliminary analysis will be performed. Secondary outcomes will be differences in patient-reported outcome measures (CPCHILD and CPG pain score), range of motion, radiological measurements including head shaft angle and hip migration percentage and three-dimensional (3D) morphological changes to the proximal femur. Furthermore, an analysis will be performed to identify predictors for treatment failure in both treatment arms.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The GUIDANCE study should provide evidence on the effectiveness of TMH-PF in addition to adductor-psoas tenotomy in children with CP with early hip migration. If beneficial, larger hip reconstructive procedures can be delayed or prevented, providing a distinct benefit for these vulnerable children. The study's strengths lie in its methodological framework, incorporating randomised allocation and intervention assessment. The main limitation is the inability to blind the treating physician or the researcher for the treatment arm the participant is allocated to. The results of the GUIDANCE study will be presented at scientific meetings and published in international peer-reviewed journals. The aim is to publish the results at 2 years follow-up and 5 years follow-up and to publish the results of the analysis on the 3D morphology of the hip after TMH-PF. Individual de-identified participant data that underlie the results from the GUIDANCE study and the study protocol will be shared if requested.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

Clinical Trial Registry number: NCT06118736. Registered on 3 November 2023.

Incidence of Avascular Necrosis of the Femoral Head Post Hip Reduction Surgery in Children With Cerebral Palsy

Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head confers a risk of morbidity amongst cerebral palsy (CP) patients. Meanwhile, the proportion who develop AVN post hip reduction surgery is unclear, and the risk factors are not established. To estimate the incidence and risk factors for AVN post hip reduction surgery in CP patients, we reviewed and analysed literature from Medline, Embase, and Web of Science repositories between January 1, 1990, and August 31, 2024. The included publications were reviewed for the incidence and risk factors in this cohort of patients. Findings were appraised using the methodological index for non-randomised studies, and scores and results were descriptively analysed. Given the marked heterogeneity of retrieved data, results were reported as standardised values, including the mean weighted incidence rate. A total of 1619 hip reduction surgeries were performed on 1045 CP patients across 12 retrospective studies with 424 cases of AVN. The mean age at surgery ranged from 7.3 to 16.2 across studies. The mean incidence was 0.482% ± 0.06945 per person-year. Most patients were in gross motor function classification system V, with a preoperative mean Reimers index of 54.11-80%. The average methodological items for non-randomised studies score was 10.08/16 ± 0.28 for all studies (n=12). AVN has a definite relationship with hip reduction surgery. The low methodological quality of reviewed studies informs the need for well-designed prospective randomised controlled studies to understand the mechanics of this relationship in terms of age of surgery and Reimers hip migration index, guide surgical timing, and patient selection.

Hip displacement in children with post-neonatal cerebral palsy and acquired brain injury: a systematic review

AIM

To systematically review the prevalence, risk factors and timing of onset of hip displacement in children with a post-neonatal (PNN) brain injury with regards to hip surveillance recommendations.

METHOD

A search of PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL and Web of Science was conducted on 22nd February 2022. Studies were included if they reported presence of, and risk factors for, hip displacement in children with PNN brain injury. Data was extracted on patient characteristics, and analyzed in terms of risk factors of interest and timing of development of hip displacement.

RESULTS

Six studies met the inclusion criteria (n = 408 participants). All were cohort studies: five retrospective and one prospective. Rates of hip displacement ranged from 1% to 100%, and were higher in children with diffuse brain injury at an early age, who were non-ambulant and had spastic quadriplegia. Hip displacement and hip dislocation were first identified at one and three months respectively following PNN brain injury.

INTERPRETATION

Evidence on hip displacement in children with PNN brain injury is sparse and low quality. Children who remain non-ambulant after diffuse PNN brain injury before five years of age appear most at risk of developing progressive hip displacement and earlier hip surveillance is recommended.

Do Adductor Tenotomies Prevent Progressive Migration in Children with Cerebral Palsy?: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Up to one-third of children with cerebral palsy (CP) develop migration of the hip, and the risk increases with a higher Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS). In progressive hip migration in young children, adductor tenotomy is an accepted treatment option to delay or prevent progressive hip migration. However, there is quite a large variability in reported results. This systematic review aims to determine the effectiveness of a soft-tissue release in the prevention of progressive hip migration in children with CP.

METHODS

This systematic review was performed in accordance with the guidelines of the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols statements. Our inclusion criteria were studies describing pediatric, skeletally immature patients with CP and a "hip at risk" of progressive hip migration. Exclusion criteria were simultaneous bony reconstructions, case reports, technical notes, published abstracts, or studies with a follow-up under 1 year postoperatively. The primary outcomes were defined as failure rate (progressive hip migration and/or need for bony surgery, as defined by each paper) and change in migration percentage (MP) at final follow-up. As secondary analyses, we evaluated the outcome after specific subtypes of surgeries and assessed whether performing lengthening of iliopsoas, neurectomy of the anterior branch of the obturator nerve, age at the time of surgery, GMFCS level, and postoperative management impact the outcome.

RESULTS

Our literature search identified 380 titles. Eighty-four articles underwent full-text review, of which 27 met our inclusion/exclusion criteria and were subsequently selected for quantitative analysis. A prevalence meta-analysis was performed including 17 studies (2,213 hips). Mean follow-up ranged from 12 to 148.8 months. The mean preoperative MP was 33.4% (2,740 hips) and 29.9% at follow-up. The overall reported failure rate was 39% (95% confidence interval, 26%-52%). Performing a release of only adductor longus had a failure rate of 87%, whereas more extensive soft-tissue releases showed significantly better results with failure rates ranging from 0 to 44% (p < 0.001). Lengthening of the iliopsoas had no significant impact on failure rate (p = 0.48), nor did performing an obturator neurectomy (p = 0.92).

CONCLUSION

The failure rate of adductor tenotomies to prevent progressive hip migration appears to be as high as 39% in studies with a varying follow-up. The failure rates are significantly higher when isolated release of the adductor longus is performed. This systematic review supports clinical decision making in children with CP and early hip migration.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IIA. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Quality of life and clinical outcomes in severely involved cerebral palsy patients and spastic hips undergoing Castle surgery: a cross-sectional study

PURPOSE

As progressive hip dislocation causes pain in children with spastic cerebral palsy (CP) and spasticity needs surgical correction, we aimed to describe clinical and radiographic outcomes in CP patients with painful hip deformity treated with the Castle salvage procedure.

METHODS

We included all patients operated in the same hospital between 1989 and 2017 with painful spastic hips and femoral head deformity making joint reconstruction unfeasible. We collected clinical and functional data from medical records and evaluated radiographies to classify cases for femoral head shape and migration, type of deformity, spinal deformity, and heterotopic ossification. We investigated quality of life one year after surgery.

RESULTS

We analyzed 41 patients (70 hips) with complete medical records. All had severe function compromise GMFCS V (Gross Motor Function Classification System) and heterotopic ossifications, all but one had scoliosis, and most had undergone other surgeries before Castle procedure. Patients were followed up for 77.1 months (mean) after surgery. The mean initial migration index was 73%. Seven patients had complications, being three patients minor (two femur and one tibial fracture) and four majors (patients requiring surgical revision). Quality of life was considered improved by most of the carers (35 children; 85.3%) as level 4/5 according to CPCHILD instrument. No child was able to stand or walk, but moving in and out of bed, of vehicles, and to a chair, remaining seated, or visiting public places was "very easy."

CONCLUSION

We considered most patients (37 patients-90%, 66 hips-94%) as having satisfactory outcomes because they had no or minor complications, absence of pain, free mobility of the lower limbs and were able to sit in a wheelchair.

Sitting Postural Management to Prevent Migration Percentage Progression in Non-Ambulatory Children with Cerebral Palsy: Randomized Controlled Trial Preliminary Data

Background/Objectives: To determine whether a sitting position with the femoral heads centered into the acetabulum is more effective than the usual sitting position in preventing migration percentage progression in non-ambulatory children with bilateral cerebral palsy. Methods: This was a multicenter, randomized controlled trial.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

spastic or dyskinetic cerebral palsy, Gross Motor Function Classification System level IV-V, age 1-6 years, migration percentage <41%, and informed consent.

EXCLUSION CRITERIA

contractures affecting the hip, anterior luxation, previous hip surgery, and lumbar scoliosis. The treatment group sat with their hips significantly abducted to reduce the head into the acetabulum in a customized system for at least five hours/day for two years. Controls sat with the pelvis and lower limbs aligned but the hips less abducted in an adaptive seating system. The primary outcome was migration percentage (MP) progression. Health-related quality of life and family satisfaction were among the secondary outcomes. The study was approved by the local ethics board and conducted in accordance with CONSORT reporting guidelines.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov ID: NCT04603625.

RESULTS

Overall median MP progression was 1.6 after the first year and 2.5 after the second year. No significant differences were observed between the groups. MP exceeded 40% and 50% in 1.8% and 0% of the experimental group and 5.4% and 3.6% of controls in years 1 and 2, respectively. Both groups expressed satisfaction with the postural system and stable health-related quality of life. Conclusions: MP remained stable over the two-year period in both groups. Considering outliers which progressed over 50%, a more protective trend of the hip-centering sitting approach emerged, but this needs to be confirmed in a final, larger dataset.

From Hip Screening to Hip Surveillance: Transforming Care for Patients With Cerebral Palsy: An Analysis of a Single Institution

INTRODUCTION

Surveillance programs aimed at monitoring hip displacement in patients with cerebral palsy have been demonstrated to decrease the incidence of hip dislocations and properly time surgical intervention, ultimately improving patient outcomes. The objective of this study was to determine whether the implementation of a hip screening to surveillance program at a tertiary academic teaching hospital in 2017 increased the frequency of radiographic evaluations and changed the timing of surgical intervention.

METHODS

A total of 592 patients with cerebral palsy were identified, and 468 of these patients had initial radiograph date data available. In this analysis, 246 patients with initial radiograph dates after 2012 were included. The study population was divided into two groups based on the initial radiograph date, 2012 to 2016 versus 2017 to 2022. One hundred sixty patients (65%) were in the 2012 to 2016 group, and 86 (35%) were in the 2017 to 2022 group. Statistical analysis was conducted using various techniques, such as two-sample Student t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, chi square/Fisher exact test, and multivariable linear regression analysis.

RESULTS

The average number of radiographs per year in the 2017 to 2022 group was 0.11 (95% CI: 0.02, 0.20, P = 0.017) higher than the 2012 to 2016 group. After adjusting for confounders using multivariable linear regression analysis, this difference was even larger (difference 0.16, 95% CI: 0.06, 0.25, P = 0.001). The surgical intervention rate was significantly lower in the 2017 to 2022 group compared with the 2012 to 2016 group (12.9% versus 40.6%, P < 0.001).

DISCUSSION

The results of this study suggest that the implementation of a hip screening to surveillance program results in more frequent radiographic evaluations and possibly a reduced need for surgical intervention from 2017 to 2022. In the 2012 to 2016 group, more surgical interventions were performed likely because of the lack of any hip surveillance or screening program in place.

Prevention of hip dislocation in severe cerebral palsy (GMFCS III-IV-V): an interdisciplinary and multi-professional Care Pathway for clinical best practice implementation

BACKGROUND

Hip displacement (HD) and dislocation in severe Cerebral Palsy (CP) (GMFCS III, IV, V) are important causes of worsening disability and quality of life. Prevention must be started from the first months of life through screening programs and early treatments, both conservative and surgical. Evidence from Clinical Practice Guidelines also suggests the development of Care Pathways for good clinical practice. At the beginning of 2020 an interdisciplinary, multi-professional working group, composed of 26 members (including Physiatrists, Physiotherapist, Neuro-psychomotor Therapists and Orthopedists representing the respective Italian Scientific Societies) with the involvement of the FightTheStroke Foundation families' association, was set up.

AIM

The aim of the multi-professional panel was the production of evidence-based recommendations for the Care Pathway "Prevention of Hip Displacement in children and adolescents with severe CP" for best clinical practice implementation in our national context.

DESIGN

Clinical Care Pathway (Clinical Practice Guideline).

SETTING

Inpatient and outpatient.

POPULATION

Children with severe CP (GMFCS III-IV-V).

METHODS

The recommendations of this Care Pathway were developed using the American Academy for Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine (AACPDM) guidelines for Care Pathways development and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment Development and Evaluation (GRADE ADOLOPMENT) working group for adoption or adaption or de novo development of recommendations from high-quality guidelines. In 2020 a multidisciplinary working group (WG) developed four research questions on the prevention of HD on the following topics: screening, botulinum toxin treatment, postural management and preventive soft tissue surgery. A comprehensive review of the biomedical literature was performed on each question. Guidelines, Systematic Reviews and Primary studies were retrieved through a top-down approach. References were screened according to inclusion criteria and quality was assessed by means of specific tools. A list of recommendations was then produced divided by intervention (screening programs, postural management, botulinum toxin, preventive surgery). In a series of meetings, the panel graduated recommendations using the GRADE evidence to decision frameworks.

RESULTS

Fifteen recommendations were developed: seven on screening programs, four on postural management strategies, one on botulinum toxin, and three on preventive surgery. Evidence quality was variable (from very low to moderate) and only a few strong recommendations were made.

CONCLUSIONS

In severe CP at high risk of hip dislocation, it is strongly recommended to start early hip surveillance programs. In our national context, there is a need to implement Screening programs and dedicated Network teams. We also strongly recommend a comprehensive approach shared with the families and goal-oriented by integrating the different therapeutic interventions, both conservative and not, within Screening programs.

CLINICAL REHABILITATION IMPACT

Implementing a comprehensive multi-professional approach for the prevention of hip dislocation in severe CP.

Application of 3D scanner to measure physical size and improvement of hip brace manufacturing technology in severe cerebral palsy patients

This prospective pilot study aimed to develop a personalized hip brace for treating hip subluxation in children with cerebral palsy. Nineteen children, aged 1-15, with severe cerebral palsy participated in the study. Customized hip braces were created based on 3D scanner measurements and worn for 7 days. The primary outcome, Hip Migration Index (MI), and secondary outcomes, including range of motion (ROM) in the hip and knee joints, pain intensity, satisfaction, discomfort scores, CPCHILD, and wearability test, were assessed. The MI and ROM were assessed at screening and at Visit 1 (when the new hip brace was first worn), while other indicators were evaluated at screening, Visit 1, and Visit 2 (7 days after wearing the new hip brace). The study demonstrated significant improvements in the MI for the right hip, left hip, and both sides. However, there were no statistically significant differences in hip and knee joint ROM. Other indicators showed significant changes between screening, Visit 1, and Visit 2. The study suggests that customized hip braces effectively achieved immediate correction, positively impacting the quality of life and satisfaction in children with cerebral palsy. Furthermore, the hip braces have the potential to enhance compliance and prevent hip subluxation.Clinical Trial Registration number: NCT05388422.

The Effect of Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy on Hip Displacement in Children With Cerebral Palsy: A Long-term Follow-up Study

BACKGROUND

Hip displacement is common in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Spasticity in the hip adductor muscles, hip flexors, and medial hamstrings has been identified as a possible cause of progressive hip displacement. Selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) aims to reduce lower extremity spasticity in children with CP. Here, we investigate the influence of SDR on hip displacement in children with CP at long-term follow-up, a minimum of 5 years post-SDR.

METHODS

A retrospective review of children undergoing SDR at a Canadian pediatric hospital was completed. Migration percentage (MP) was measured on pelvis radiographs taken in the 6 months before SDR and minimum 5 years post-SDR or before hip surgery. The number of hips with displacement, defined as MP >30%, and the number of children with at least 1 hip displaced were determined. A linear mixed-effects model was used to assess potential risk factors for poor outcome post-SDR, defined as having MP >40% or surgical intervention for hip displacement.

RESULTS

Ninety children [50 males, 40 females, Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels I to V: 1/13/24/43/9] with a mean follow-up of 8.5 years (SD 5.1) were included. The mean age at SDR was 4.9 years (SD 1.5); more than half of children (52%) had hip displacement at the time of SDR. Post-SDR, MP exceeded 30% in 0 (0%) of children at GMFCS level I, 1 (8%) at II, 11 (46%) at III, 31 (72%) at IV, and 7 (78%) at V. A poor outcome was associated with preoperative MP, age, and GMFCS level.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of hip displacement post-SDR was consistent with population-based studies when evaluated by GMFCS. Our findings suggest that SDR has neither a positive nor negative effect on hip displacement when assessed at least 5 years postintervention.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV.

Validation of a modified Care and Comfort Score and responsiveness to hip surgery in children with cerebral palsy in Gross Motor Function Classification System levels IV and V

Aims

The purpose of this study was to assess the reliability and responsiveness to hip surgery of a four-point modified Care and Comfort Hypertonicity Questionnaire (mCCHQ) scoring tool in children with cerebral palsy (CP) in Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels IV and V.

Methods

This was a population-based cohort study in children with CP from a national surveillance programme. Reliability was assessed from 20 caregivers who completed the mCCHQ questionnaire on two occasions three weeks apart. Test-retest reliability of the mCCHQ was calculated, and responsiveness before and after surgery for a displaced hip was evaluated in a cohort of children.

Results

Test-retest reliability for the overall mCCHQ score was good (intraclass correlation coefficient 0.78), and no dimension demonstrated poor reliability. The surgical intervention cohort comprised ten children who had preoperative and postoperative mCCHQ scores at a minimum of six months postoperatively. The mCCHQ tool demonstrated a significant improvement in overall score from preoperative assessment to six-month postoperative follow-up assessment (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The mCCHQ demonstrated responsiveness to intervention and good test-retest reliability. The mCCHQ is proposed as an outcome tool for use within a national surveillance programme for children with CP.

The Use of Visual Analysis for Gait and Foot Posture in Children with Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip

BACKGROUND

Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is recognized as a leading cause of significant long-term complications, including inaccurate gait patterns, persistent pain, and early regressive joint disorder, and it can influence families functionally, socially, and psychologically.

METHODS

This study aimed to determine foot posture and gait analysis across patients with developmental hip dysplasia. We retrospectively reviewed participants referred to the pediatric rehabilitation department of KASCH from the orthopedic clinic between 2016 and 2022 (patients born 2016-2022) with DDH for conservative brace treatment.

RESULTS

The foot postural index for the right foot showed a mean of 5.89 (n = 203, SD 4.15) and the left food showed a mean of 5.94 (n = 203, SD 4.19). The gait analysis mean was 6.44 (n = 406, SD 3.84). The right lower limb mean was 6.41 (n = 203, SD 3.78), and the left lower limb mean was 6.47 (n = 203, SD 3.91). The correlation for general gait analysis was r = 0.93, presenting the very high impact of DDH on gait. Significant correlation results were found between the right (r = 0.97) and left (r = 0.25) lower limbs. Variation between the right and left lower limb p-values was 0.88 (p < 0.05). DDH affects the left lower limb more than the right during gait.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that there is a higher risk of developing foot pronation on the left side, which is altered by DDH. Gait analysis has shown that DDH affects the right lower limb more than the left. The results of the gait analysis showed gait deviation in the sagittal mid- and late stance phases.

Multisystem compensations and consequences in spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy children

Spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy (CP) is a permanent neuromuscular disorder causing limitation on all four limbs following a lesion on the developing brain. Most children with spastic quadriplegic CP are identified to be Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level V, thus they have more comorbidities compared to other types at lower levels. Spastic quadriplegic CP is characterized by weak and inactive postural muscles of the neck and trunk, hence, they will undergo a total body extension as a compensatory mechanism leading to an atypical movement pattern, that give rise to multisystem consequences that reduce their quality of life. The relationship between atypical movement patterns, compensatory strategies, and multisystem consequences have not yet been explored. In fact, these multisystem consequences aggravate their condition and make movement much more atypical, forming a vicious cycle. This review aimed to provide a summary and highlight the mechanism of atypical movement pattern, multisystem compensations, and consequences in spastic quadriplegic CP children. It is true that central nervous system (CNS) lesion in CP is non-progressive, however the multisystem consequences may impair overall function over time. An understanding of how compensatory strategy and multisystem consequences in spastic quadriplegic CP offers the opportunity to intervene as early as possible to improve their quality of life.

Hip subluxation in Italian cerebral palsy children and its determinants: a retrospective cohort study

The study's aim was two-fold: to describe the trend of hip subluxation in the largest sample of Italian nonambulatory cerebral palsy (CP) children ever published; to investigate its determinants. This single-centre retrospective cohort study included patients with spastic or dyskinetic CP, Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level IV or V, age 0-18 years, having been referred to our unit before March 2020. The hip subluxation was measured by means of the migration percentage (MP). Other data were gathered such as sex, CP subtype, GMFCS level, presence of drug-resistant epilepsy, age, use of walkers with weight relief or standing devices, previous botulinum injection or hip surgery, oral or intrathecal baclofen and hip pain. Multiple linear stepwise regression was performed and descriptive statistics are provided. Spastic CP had MP maximum increase in early ages, with GMFCS level V values persistently higher than level IV. The dyskinetic subtype showed a slower increase of the MP, with GMFCS level IV presenting similar or higher values, compared to level V. Age, CP severity and spastic subtype are the main determinants. The stepwise multiple regression analysis demonstrated that weight relief walking and standing assistive devices, combined with botulinum contributed to reduce the MP progression. Dyskinetic CP showed overall lower MP values and a more variable behaviour relative to age and GMFCS level, compared to the spastic subtype. Standing and walking assistive devices, with partial or total weight relief, combined with individually targeted botulinum injections, should be considered in the management of bilateral nonambulatory CP patients, to prevent hip subluxation or its recurrence after surgery.

Late Hip Displacement Identified in Children at Gross Motor Function Classification System II and III With Asymmetric Diplegia and Fixed Pelvic Obliquity

Risk of hip displacement in children with cerebral palsy is directly related to a child's level of motor function as classified by the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) and is reported to be greatest at a young age. In this study, we present a series of four children with asymmetric diplegic cerebral palsy at GMFCS levels II and III, with the more involved hip showing rapid, progressive displacement at a later age. Current hip surveillance guidelines may not adequately identify hip displacement in children with asymmetric diplegia and pelvic obliquity; modifications to surveillance guidelines may be warranted. Additional investigation of hip displacement in this subset of children is required to determine whether the incidence of displacement is higher than anticipated based on the GMFCS level alone.

Brachial plexus birth injury and cerebral palsy lead to a common contracture phenotype characterized by reduced functional muscle length and strength

Introduction

Brachial plexus birth injury (BPBI) and cerebral palsy (CP) both cause disabling contractures for which no curative treatments exist, largely because contracture pathophysiology is incompletely understood. The distinct neurologic nature of BPBI and CP suggest different potential contracture etiologies, although imbalanced muscle strength and insufficient muscle length have been variably implicated. The current study directly compares the muscle phenotype of elbow flexion contractures in human subjects with BPBI and CP to test the hypothesis that both conditions cause contractures characterized by a deficit in muscle length rather than an excess in muscle strength.

Methods

Subjects over 6 years of age with unilateral BPBI or hemiplegic CP, and with elbow flexion contractures greater than 10 degrees on the affected side, underwent bilateral elbow flexion isokinetic strength testing to identify peak torque and impulse, or area under the torque-angle curve. Subjects then underwent needle microendoscopic sarcomere length measurement of bilateral biceps brachii muscles at symmetric joint angles.

Results

In five subjects with unilateral BPBI and five with hemiplegic CP, peak torque and impulse were significantly lower on the affected versus unaffected sides, with no differences between BPBI and CP subjects in the percent reduction of either strength measurement. In both BPBI and CP, the percent reduction of impulse was significantly greater than that of peak torque, consistent with functionally shorter muscles. Similarly, in both conditions, affected muscles had significantly longer sarcomeres than unaffected muscles at symmetric joint angles, indicating fewer sarcomeres in series, with no differences between BPBI and CP subjects in relative sarcomere overstretch.

Discussion

The current study reveals a common phenotype of muscle contracture in BPBI and CP, with contractures in both conditions characterized by a similar deficit in muscle length rather than an excess in muscle strength. These findings support contracture treatments that lengthen rather than weaken affected muscles. Moreover, the discovery of a common contracture phenotype between CP and BPBI challenges the presumed dichotomy between upper and lower motor neuron lesions in contracture pathogenesis, instead revealing the broader concept of “myobrevopathy”, or disorder of short muscle, warranting increased investigation into the poorly understood mechanisms regulating muscle length.

A retrospective cohort study about hip luxation in non-ambulatory cerebral palsy patients: The point of no return

PURPOSE

The migration percentage is a widely used criterion for surgery in displaced hips. Literature suggests that no hip can spontaneously improve if the migration percentage exceeds 45%, in a mixed population of cerebral palsy children. The aim of the present article was to identify the point of no return of the migration percentage in a selected sample of non-ambulatory cerebral palsy children, being the most exposed to hip luxation.

METHODS

This single-center retrospective cohort study included patients with spastic or dyskinetic cerebral palsy, Gross Motor Function Classification System level IV or V, age 0-18, having at least three pelvic radiographies, excluding radiographies relative to hips having previously undergone surgery. The following information was collected: sex, cerebral palsy subtype, Gross Motor Function Classification System level, presence of drug-resistant epilepsy, migration percentage, age at assessment, use of walking or standing assistive devices, previous botulinum injection, oral or intrathecal baclofen, and hip pain. Data were analyzed at the level of the individual hips. Descriptive statistics were presented. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was conducted to investigate which value of the migration percentage could be adopted as the "point of no return": that is, the cutoff value beyond which no migration percentage reduction, by more than 5%, could be expected.

RESULTS

The optimal cutoff value was identified as migration percentage ≥50%, with a sensitivity of 84.5% and a specificity of 100% (p-value <0.001).

CONCLUSION

Based on the present study, migration percentage ≥50% is the "point of no return" for Gross Motor Function Classification System IV-V cerebral palsy patients, representing the cutoff value beyond which no spontaneous cerebral palsy reduction may be expected, unless addressing surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

level II-retrospective study.

Guided Growth of the Proximal Femur for the Management of the 'Hip at Risk' in Children with Cerebral Palsy-A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Guided growth is frequently used to modify lower-limb alignment in children, and recently temporary medial hemiepiphysiodesis of the proximal femur (TMH-PF) has been used for the management of hips at risk of subluxation in cerebral palsy (CP) patients. The aim of our study was to evaluate the efficacy of TMH-PF in the management of neuromuscular hip dysplasia in children with cerebral palsy.

METHODS

A systematic search of the literature was performed by using PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Scopus and Cochrane databases. Pre- and postoperative radiographic changes of the migration percentage (MP), head-shaft angle (HSA) and acetabular index (AI) were included in a meta-analysis. Secondary outcomes were treatment complication rates, technical considerations and the limitations of this novel technique.

RESULTS

Four studies (93 patients; 178 hips) met the eligibility criteria for inclusion in the meta-analysis. All three radiographic measurements showed significant changes at a minimum of 2 years of follow-up. Mean changes for MP were 8.48% (95% CI 3.81-13.14), HSA 12.28° (95% CI 11.17-13.39) and AI 3.41° (95% CI 0.72-6.10), with I² of 75.74%, 0% and 87.68%, respectively. The serious complication rate was overall low; however, physeal 'growing off' of the screw was reported in up to 43% of hips treated.

CONCLUSION

TMH-PF is an effective and predictable method to treat CP patients with 'hips at risk', and the overall complication rate is low; however, further work is required to identify the best candidates and surgical timing, as well as choice of technique and implant.

Prevalence and treatment of hip displacement in children with cerebral palsy in Finland

PURPOSE

The aim was to study the prevalence of hip displacements, dislocations, and the hip surgeries performed in a Finnish cohort of children with cerebral palsy not followed up in a hip surveillance program and to compare these with previous studies performed in Northern European countries before and after the implementation of hip surveillance programs.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study. A cohort including 480 children with cerebral palsy, born during the period 2000-2018, not enrolled in a hip surveillance program. Migration percentages were recorded from hip radiographs, age at first hip surgery and type of surgery was extracted from medical records. In a separate analysis, the inclusion criteria were adapted to fit two studies analyzing hip dislocation and hip surgery in Sweden, Norway, and Scotland before and after the implementation of a hip surveillance program. Chi-square tests were used to assess differences in proportions between the groups.

RESULTS

In total, 286 children (60%) have had at least one hip radiograph. Of these, 10 (3.5%) developed hip dislocation, which is more than in children of countries with hip surveillance programs (Sweden 0.7%, Scotland 1.3%, p < 0.001). Initial surgery to prevent hip dislocation was performed at an older age (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Children with cerebral palsy in Finland not participating in a surveillance hip program were more likely to undergo hip surgery at an older age and to develop hip displacements and dislocations. The results support the effectiveness of surveillance programs to prevent hip dislocation in children with cerebral palsy.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Paralytic dislocation of the hip in children

Despite the progress made in the past decades, hip disorders are one of the most common orthopedic problems in the context of paralysis. The etiology can be congenital (malformation such as myelomeningoceles, genetic neuromuscular disorders) or acquired (cerebral palsy, post-traumatic). In these conditions, the orthopedic deformities are minimal at birth. They can develop as the child grows, at different ages, depending on the etiology, severity of the neuromuscular disorder and functional potential. Hip subluxation and dislocation can compromise standing and walking capacities, but also the quality of the seated position and the personal care. Daily life activities and participation are restricted and influence the disabled person's quality of life. Paralytic dislocation of the hip is the orthopedic deformity that has be biggest impact on day-to-day life, general health and the overall orthopedic result in adulthood. Neuro-orthopedic care is challenging. However, there are basic principles that one must know to ensure good long-term quality of life in patients suffering from paralytic dislocations of the hip. When planning the treatment strategy, it is essential to take into consideration the day-to-day life and to integrate the patient's experiences and needs, along with those of their caretakers. The objective of this review is to outline the differences in paralytic dislocations of the hip of diverse etiology, to present evaluation principles useful in daily clinical practice and to help practitioners in choosing a treatment strategy.

Short-term outcome of double-shelled braces in neuromuscular scoliosis

INTRODUCTION

Scoliosis in patients with neuromuscular disease is a common issue and leads to secondary impairment. It is thus important to help such patients to regain and retain best possible stability to improve their quality of life. One option is the double-shelled brace (DSB). The aim of this study was to provide information on the degree of correction when using a DSB on patients with neuromuscular scoliosis.

METHODS

We included patients with neuromuscular scoliosis treated with double-shelled braces in this retrospective study. Radiographs of the full spine were taken with and without the DSB, the Cobb angles were measured and compared. The correction was expressed in percent of the lumbar and thoracic Cobb angles. In addition, compounding factors such as age, sex, type of the curves, and movement disorder were included.

RESULTS

We analyzed data from 84 patients with scoliosis with different neuromuscular disorders. The mean age was 12.3 years (± 5.9). In the lumbar spine we detected an improvement of 27.5% (SD ± 32.9), in the thoracic spine 25.3% (SD ± 38.0).

INTERPRETATION

Short-term corrections with a double-shelled brace in neuromuscular scoliosis present an average improvement of one fourth of the lumbar and thoracic Cobb angles and, independent of age, sex, movement disorder, shape or type of the curve. Only spasticity has an influence on the lumbar scoliosis outcome.

Australian hip surveillance guidelines at 10 years: New evidence and implementation

Optimum management of hip displacement in children with cerebral palsy (CP) is facilitated by an approach that focuses on anticipatory and preventive measures. Hip surveillance programs for children with CP were developed at the beginning of the new millennium, with the purpose of identifying hip displacement sufficiently early to permit a choice of effective management options. In the early years, hip surveillance was guided by epidemiological analysis of population-based studies of prevalence. In Australia, a National Hip Surveillance in CP Working Group was first convened in 2005. This resulted in a 2008 Consensus Statement of recommendations published and endorsed by Australasian Academy of Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine (AusACPDM). The group undertook that the recommendations should be reviewed every 5 years to ensure currency and congruency with the emerging evidence base. As new evidence became available, hip surveillance guidelines developed, with the most recent 2020 Australian Hip Surveillance Guidelines endorsed by the AusACPDM. Implementing comprehensive hip surveillance programs has now been shown to improve the natural history of hip dislocations and improve quality of life. Standardised hip surveillance programs can also facilitate planning for multicentre research through harmonisation of data collection. This, in turn, can help with the identification of robust new evidence that is based on large cohort or population studies. Here a review of evidence informing the updated 2020 Hip Surveillance Guidelines is presented.

Hip displacement in children with cerebral palsy

AIMS

The migration percentage (MP) is one criterion used for surgery in dislocated or displaced hips in children with cerebral palsy (CP). The MP at which a displaced hip can no longer return to normal is unclear. The aim of this paper was to identify the point of no return of the MP through a large population-based study.

METHODS

All children registered on the Cerebral Palsy Integrated Pathway Scotland surveillance programme undergo regular pelvic radiographs. Any child who had a MP measuring over 35% since the programme's inception in 2013, in at least one hip and at one timepoint, was identified. The national radiography database was then interrogated to identify all pelvic radiographs for each of these children from birth through to the date of analysis. A minimum of a further two available radiographs following the initial measurement of MP ≥ 35% was required for inclusion.

RESULTS

A total of 239 children (346 hips) were identified as suitable for analysis at a mean of 6.5 years (2.0 to 14.8) follow-up. In all, 1,485 radiographs taken both prior to and after a hip had a MP ≥ 35% were examined and the MP measured to identify any progression of displacement. Interrogation of the data identified that hips with a MP up to 46% returned to a MP below 40% without intervention, and all hips with a MP equal to or greater than 46% displaced further and the MP did not return to the normal range. Statistical analysis showed the result to be 98% specific with this degree of certainty that hips reaching a MP ≥ 46% would not spontaneously regress.

CONCLUSION

These findings are clinically relevant in showing that it may be reasonable to continue to monitor hips with a MP not exceeding 46%. This threshold will also guide referral for further management of a displacing hip. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(2):411-414.

Hip Displacement in Cerebral Palsy: The Role of Surveillance

INTRODUCTION

Hip displacement is common in cerebral palsy (CP) and is related to the severity of neurological and functional impairment. It is a silent, but progressive disease, and can result in significant morbidity and decreased quality of life, if left untreated. The pathophysiology of hip displacement in CP is a combination of hip flexor-adductor muscle spasticity, abductor muscle weakness, and delayed weight-bearing, resulting in proximal femoral deformities and progressive acetabular dysplasia. Due to a lack of symptoms in the early stages of hip displacement, the diagnosis is easily missed. Awareness of this condition and regular surveillance by clinical examination and serial radiographs of the hips are the key to early diagnosis and treatment.

HIP SURVEILLANCE PROGRAMMES

Several population-based studies from around the world have demonstrated that universal hip surveillance in children with CP allows early detection of hip displacement and appropriate early intervention, with a resultant decrease in painful dislocations. Global hip surveillance models are based upon the patients' age, functional level determined by the Gross Motor Function Classification system (GMFCS), gait classification, standardized clinical exam, and radiographic indices such as the migration percentage (MP), as critical indicators of progressive hip displacement.

CONCLUSION

Despite 25 years of evidence showing the efficacy of established hip surveillance programmes, there is poor awareness among healthcare professionals in India about the importance of regular hip surveillance in children with CP. There is a need for professional organizations to develop evidence-based guidelines for hip surveillance which are relevant to the Indian context.

3D ultrasound to quantify lateral hip displacement in children with cerebral palsy: a validation study

AIM

To assess the validity of a new index, lateral head coverage (LHC), for describing hip dysplasia in a population of children with cerebral palsy (CP).

METHOD

LHC is derived from 3D ultrasound assessment. Twenty-two children (15 males, seven females; age 4-15y) with CP undergoing routine hip surveillance were recruited prospectively for the study. Each participant had both a planar radiograph acquired as part of their routine care and a 3D ultrasound assessment within 2 months. Reimer's migration percentage (RMP) and LHC were measured by the same assessor, and the correlation between them calculated using Pearson's correlation coefficient. The repeatability of LHC was investigated with three assessors, analysing each of 10 images three times. Inter- and intra-assessor variation was quantified using intraclass correlation coefficients.

RESULTS

LHC was strongly correlated with RMP (Spearman's rank correlation coefficient=-0.86, p<0.001). LHC had similar inter-assessor reliability to that reported for RMP (intraclass correlation coefficient=0.97 and intra-assessor intraclass correlation coefficient=0.98).

INTERPRETATION

This is an initial validation of the use of 3D ultrasound in monitoring hip development in children with CP. LHC is comparable with RMP in estimating hip dysplasia with similar levels of reliability that are reported for RMP.

Safety of the LCP Pediatric Hip Plate in Proximal Femoral Osteotomy in Children with Cerebral Palsy

Purpose

Proximal femoral osteotomy in cerebral palsy patients is a demanding procedure. The fixation of the osteotomy can fail due to the weak osteoporotic bone. The LCP pediatric hip plate with its good grip makes these procedures safe. The aims of the present study are to evaluate the radiological outcome of proximal femoral osteotomy that was fixed with the pediatric LCP in cerebral palsy patients and to raise safety issues regarding its low rate of complications.

Patients and Methods

Sixteen patients with cerebral palsy who were operated in our department were included in this retrospective study. Data collected from medical charts and X-ray measurements retrospectively reviewed.

Results

In total, 16 patients (21 hips), ie, 9 males and 7 females, were included in this analysis. The mean age at the time of the index surgery was 11.9 years (5.9–18.0). The mean follow-up period was 4.78 years (1.5–8.0). Five patients had bilateral hip involvement and 11 had unilateral involvement. All patients had spastic cerebral palsy. The mean values of varus correction and de-rotation were 25° (0°–45°) and 35° (20°–50°), respectively. Neck shaft angle and the Reimer’s migration index were significantly improved postoperatively (p<0.01 for both). Seventeen hips showed complete consolidation within 14 weeks of fixation and four hips needed 16 weeks. These four hips were in three patients who were 16 years of age or older. The correlation between age at surgery and the time needed for consolidation was statistically significant (p=0.005). Avascular necrosis, revision surgeries, failure of fixation, acetabular penetration, screw loosening or fracture of the femur were not seen in this study.

Conclusion

The LCP pediatric hip plate can be used safely in CP patients. The plate provides a strong stable fixation on osteoporotic bone with a low rate of complications.

Hip displacement and dislocation in a total population of children with cerebral palsy in Scotland

Aims

The purpose of this study was to compare the prevalence of hip displacement and dislocation in a total population of children with cerebral palsy (CP) in Scotland before and after the initiation of a hip surveillance programme.

Patients

A total of 2,155 children with CP are registered in the Cerebral Palsy Integrated Pathway Scotland (CPIPS) surveillance programme, which began in 2013. Physical examination and hip radiological data are collected according to nationally agreed protocols.

Methods

Age, Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level, subtype of CP, migration percentage (MP), and details of hip surgery were analyzed for all children aged between two and 16 years taken from a time of census in March 2019 and compared to the same data from the initial registration of children in the CPIPS. Displacement of the hip was defined as a MP of between 40% and 99%, and dislocation as a MP of 100%.

Results

A total of 1,646 children were available for analysis at the time of the census and 1,171 at their first registration in CPIPS. The distribution of age, sex, and GMFCS levels were similar in the two groups. The prevalence of displacement and dislocation of the hip before surveillance began were 10% (117/1,171) and 2.5% (29/1,171) respectively, and at the time of the census were 4.5% (74/1,646) and 1.3% (21/1,646), respectively. Dislocation was only seen in GMFCS levels IV and V and displacement seen in 90.5% (67/74) of these levels and 9.5% (7/74) in levels I to III. In total, 138 children had undergone hip surgery during the study period. The hip redisplaced after the initial surgery in 15 children; seven of these had undergone a second procedure and at the time of the census the hips in all seven had a MP < 40.

Conclusion

Hip surveillance appears to be effective and has reduced the prevalence of hip displacement by over half and dislocation almost by half in these children. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(3):383–387

Proteasome inhibition preserves longitudinal growth of denervated muscle and prevents neonatal neuromuscular contractures

Muscle contractures are a prominent and disabling feature of many neuromuscular disorders, including the 2 most common forms of childhood neurologic dysfunction: neonatal brachial plexus injury (NBPI) and cerebral palsy. There are currently no treatment strategies to directly alter the contracture pathology, as the pathogenesis of these contractures is unknown. We previously showed in a mouse model of NBPI that contractures result from impaired longitudinal muscle growth. Current presumed explanations for growth impairment in contractures focus on the dysregulation of muscle stem cells, which differentiate and fuse to existing myofibers during growth, as this process has classically been thought to control muscle growth during the neonatal period. Here, we demonstrate in a mouse model of NBPI that denervation does not prevent myonuclear accretion and that reduction in myonuclear number has no effect on functional muscle length or contracture development, providing definitive evidence that altered myonuclear accretion is not a driver of neuromuscular contractures. In contrast, we observed elevated levels of protein degradation in NBPI muscle, and we demonstrate that contractures can be pharmacologically prevented with the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib. These studies provide what we believe is the first strategy to prevent neuromuscular contractures by correcting the underlying deficit in longitudinal muscle growth.

Guided Growth Improves Coxa Valga and Hip Subluxation in Children with Cerebral Palsy

BACKGROUND

Spastic hip subluxation or dislocation that is associated with an excessive coxa valga deformity is a common pathologic condition in children with cerebral palsy (CP) that is often treated with large bone reconstructive procedures. Guided growth techniques (such as stapling, plate, or transphyseal screw) have been widely used to alter the growth axis in patients with a lower-limb deformity but only a few reports have described their use in patients with coxa valga deformities.

QUESTIONS/PURPOSES

(1) Does guided growth surgery using a transphyseal screw combined with adductor tenotomy prevent progressive coxa valga deformity and lateral hip subluxation in children with CP? (2) What factors influence the correction of coxa valga deformity and the success of hip stabilization? (3) What complications were associated with this operation and how often did children treated with it undergo reoperation?

METHODS

From 2012 to 2016, at our institution, three authors (H-CH, KNK, K-WW) retrospectively studied data on children with CP who underwent guided growth of the hip for progressive bilateral hip subluxation associated with coxa valga deformities. A single percutaneous screw was inserted across the inferomedial portion of proximal femoral physis in an AP view and centered along femoral neck in lateral view under fluoroscopy guidance. During the period, we treated 25 consecutive children with CP who had progressive hip subluxation with coxa valga deformities. The indications for surgery were migration percentage > 30% and head-shaft angle > 155° with at least 2 years growth remaining. Of those, 13 patients underwent guided growth alone, and 48% (12) underwent a combination of guided growth and adductor tenotomy. Of the 25 patients treated with this approach, 96% (24) were available for follow-up with complete data at a minimum of 2 years follow-up (mean 50 months; range 25 to 72). All children (17 boys and seven girls; 48 hips) underwent surgery at a mean age of 8 years (range 5 to 12). With regard to the gross motor function classification system, three patients were Level 1, four patients were Level II, seven patients were Level III, seven were Level IV, and three were Level V. Radiographic parameters including the head-shaft angle, Hilgenreiner's epiphyseal angle, acetabular index, and Reimer's migration percentage were assessed before surgery and at the latest follow-up examination by one author (H-CH). Complications and reoperations were assessed by chart review. During the period in question, we generally offered secondary reconstructive surgery to patients who underwent a guided growth procedure once their subluxation progressed.

RESULTS

With the data available, the coxa valga and lateral hip subluxation improved in terms of the reduction of head-shaft angle by a mean of 13° ± 7° (95% CI 11 to 15; p < 0.001) and the reduction of the migration percentage by 10% ± 11% (95% CI 7 to 13; p < 0.001). After controlling for potentially confounding variables like gender, gross motor function classification system, Hilgenreiner's epiphyseal angle and acetabular index, we found that longer follow-up duration (r = 0.234; p < 0.001) and a smaller preoperative migration percentage (r = -0.258; p = 0.004) were associated with larger changes in the head-shaft angle. In terms of complications, we found that the proximal femoral physis grew off the screw tip in 44% (21 of 48 hips) at a mean of 28 months. Among these, 31% of hips (15 of 48) in 33% of patients (eight of 24) underwent replacement with a longer screw. Among the 17% of hips (eight of 48) in 21% of patients (five of 24) who had progressive lateral subluxation and underwent secondary reconstructive surgery, we found that their preoperative acetabular index was higher (mean 29° versus 21°; p < 0.001), as was their head-shaft angle (mean 166° versus 162°; p = 0.045), and migration percentage (mean 54% versus 36 %; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Although guided growth with single transphyseal screw did not create as large a degree of varus as proximal femoral osteotomy, it did stabilize the hip in children with cerebral palsy with migration percentage less than 50% in our series. It is a simple procedure that can be of benefit to children with cerebral palsy with unstable hip. Reoperation in patients where the physis has grown off the screw tip can be a problem; fortunately, it is a rather minor procedure to replace with a longer screw.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, therapeutic study.

Hip Surveillance in Children With Cerebral Palsy

Hip dysplasia is common in children with cerebral palsy (CP), especially in those children with notable functional impairment. Severity of hip dysplasia has been shown to correlate with higher Gross Motor Function Classification System levels. Migration percentage measured on AP pelvis radiographs is the key radiographic measure quantifying hip displacement in CP. Hip surveillance programs for children with CP exist in Europe, Australia, and parts of Canada and have been adopted as standard of care. These programs have demonstrated improved detection of hip subluxation and appropriate early intervention with a resultant decrease in the number of painful dislocations. Hip surveillance programs provide healthcare providers with guidance for a schedule of obtaining hip radiographs based on patients' age, Gross Motor Function Classification System level, and migration percentage. Although systematic surveillance programs have yet to be adopted in the United States, several centers and organizations are currently investigating the potential and efficacy of hip screening in CP.

The effect of femoral orientation on the measurement of the head shaft angle: an ex-vivo study

This laboratory study evaluates head shaft angle (HSA) reliability using ranges of simulated femoral orientation often seen in children with cerebral palsy. A dry femur was mounted in a jig that enabled the bone to be positioned in a range of internal and external rotation (-40° to + 40°) and flexion (0°-60°), alone or in combination. A metal wire was placed as a surrogate physis to give two HSA angles of 140° and 160°. Radiographs were taken of the femur in differing combinations of rotation, flexion and the two HSA angles. The HSA was measured by four independent observers on two separate occasions. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were used to assess interobserver and intraobserver reliability. The HSA was accurately measured within ± 5° when the femur was positioned between 20° internal rotation and 40° external rotation. Flexion up to 60° did not affect the accuracy of the measurement. The interobserver reliability for the HSA was excellent with an ICC of 0.9970 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.9995-0.9983] for the first measurement and 0.9988 for the second (95% CI: 0.9979-0.9993, all P < 0.01). The intraobserver reliability was also excellent with an ICC of not less than 0.990 for all four observers (95% CI: 0.9806-0.9986, all P < 0.01). There was excellent interobserver and intraobserver reliability when measuring the HSA in an experimental model provided femoral rotation lay within 20° internal and 40° external rotation and less than 60° of flexion.

Guided Growth of the Proximal Femur for the Management of Hip Dysplasia in Children With Cerebral Palsy

BACKGROUND

Progressive hip displacement is one of the most common and debilitating deformities seen in children with cerebral palsy (CP). The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of temporary medial hemiepiphysiodesis of the proximal femur (TMH-PF) using a transphyseal screw to control hip migration during growth in children with CP.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of children with CP and hip dysplasia, age 4 to 11 years and GMFCS levels III-V. There were 28 patients with 56 hips that underwent TMH-PF surgery between 2007 and 2010. Clinical and radiologic evaluation was performed preoperatively, at 6, 12, and 60 months following the index surgery. Acetabular index (AI), neck-shaft angle (NSA) and migration percentage (MP) were measured. All complications were recorded.

RESULTS

All radiographic measurements were significantly improved at the final follow-up. Positive correlations were found between NSA, MP, and AI. Multiple regression analysis revealed that MP, time from surgery, and age were influenced by the decrease of the NSA. The femoral physis grew off the screw in 9 hips within 36 months. The screw head broke during attempted screw exchange in 1 hip. The remain cases (4 hips) were treated by placing a second screw parallel to the existing one. Finally, progressive subluxation occurred in 3 hips when the physis grew off the screw and were treated by skeletal reconstruction.

CONCLUSIONS

TMH-PF was effective in controlling progressive subluxation of the hip in the majority of cases, obviating the need for major reconstructive surgery in these children with CP.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV.

Hip displacement in children with cerebral palsy in Scotland: a total population study

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to report the number of children from a total population of children with cerebral palsy (CP) in Scotland who had a displaced or dislocated hip at first registration in a national surveillance programme.

METHODS

Migration percentage (MP), laterality, Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level, CP subtype, distribution of CP and age were analyzed in 1171 children. Relative risk was calculated with 95% confidence intervals. Hip displacement and dislocation were defined as a MP of 40 to 99 and > 100 respectively.

RESULTS

Radiographs were available from the first assessment of 1171 children out of 1933 children registered on the system. In all, 2.5% of children had either one or both hips dislocated (29/1171) and dislocation only occurred in children of GMFCS levels IV and V. A total of 10% of children had a MP 40 to 99 in one or both hips (117/1171). An increasing GMFCS level was strongly associated with an abnormal MP. Hip dislocation was unusual in patients under the age of seven years. A MP of 40 to 99 was not seen in children with isolated dystonia. Displacement was more frequent in children with bilateral involvement and dislocation was only seen in spastic and mixed tone groups.

CONCLUSION

This data gives an overview of the number of CP children who have hip displacement/dislocation in Scotland and who will possibly require surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

I.

Determinants of Hip and Femoral Deformities in Children With Spastic Cerebral Palsy

Objective

To find factors affecting hip and femoral deformities in children with spastic cerebral palsy (CP) by comparing various clinical findings with imaging studies including plain radiography and computed tomography (CT) imaging.

Methods

Medical records of 709 children with spastic CP who underwent thorough baseline physical examination and functional assessment between 2 to 6 years old were retrospectively reviewed. Fifty-seven children (31 boys and 26 girls) who had both plain radiography of the hip and three-dimensional CT of the lower extremities at least 5 years after baseline examination were included in this study.

Results

The mean age at physical examination was 3.6 years (SD=1.6; range, 2–5.2 years) and the duration of follow-up imaging after baseline examination was 68.4 months (SD=22.0; range, 60–124 months). The migration percentage correlated with motor impairment and the severity of hip adductor spasticity (R1 angle of hip abduction with knee flexion). The femoral neck and shaft angle correlated with the ambulation ability and severity of hip adductor spasticity (R1 and R2 angles of hip abduction with both knee flexion and extension).

Conclusion

Hip subluxation and coxa valga deformity correlated with both dynamic spasticity and shortening of hip adductor muscles. However, we found no correlation between femoral deformities such as femoral anteversion, coxa valga, and hip subluxation.

Effects of Postural Management on Hip Migration in Children With Cerebral Palsy: A Systematic Review

PURPOSE

To review the existing literature on the effects of postural management on hip migration in children with cerebral palsy.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was performed using 5 databases. Quality of articles was assessed and study designs were appraised according to the American Academy of Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine Systematic Review Method.

RESULTS

Eight of 655 identified studies were included, reporting postural management in children with cerebral palsy. Seven of 8 studies reported positive effects on hip migration after postural management interventions. However, level of evidence and quality of the articles were low.

CONCLUSION

The evidence for postural management to prevent or reduce hip migration in children with cerebral palsy is limited by the lack of high-quality studies. Strong recommendations for clinical practice are not possible. Future high-quality research is crucial to improve our understanding of the effects of postural management to prevent hip migration in children with cerebral palsy.

The effect of hip reconstruction on gross motor function levels in children with cerebral palsy

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine whether the hip reconstruction has an effect on gross motor function classification system (GMFCS) levels in patients with hip instability in cerebral palsy (CP).

Methods

A total of 45 hips of 30 patients (mean age: 8.7 (4–17) years) with CP operated due to hip instability with a minimum of 2 years of follow-up were included into the study. Migration index was used for classification of the severity of hip instability. Clinical evaluation included sitting and walking ability, existence of pressure sores, difficulty in perineal care, and hip pain. The functional gains from the surgery were evaluated with changes in GMFCS levels. Wilcoxon T test, chi-square test and Spearman correlation test were used.

Results

Mean follow-up time was 57 (24–132) months. The distribution of preoperative GMFCS was level I in 1 patient, level II in 4 patients, level III in 5 patients, level IV in 9 patients and level V in 11 patients. The complaints resolved in 25 patients, and persisted in 5 postoperatively. There was no correlation between the changes in GMFCS levels and the postoperative complaints (p = 0.504). The GMFCS levels did not change in 20 patients, improved in 8, and worsened in 2. There were no significant differences between the preoperative and postoperative GMFCS levels (p = 0.052). Positive correlations were found between the preoperative GMFCS-MI, the type of CP-MI respectively (p = 0.001, p = 0.015).

Conclusion

There was an improvement in preoperative complaints. GMFCS levels remained stable after surgery. Relief in symptoms was not consistent with the changes in GMFCS in children with cerebral palsy after hip reconstruction.

Level of evidence

Level IV, Therapeutic study.

Combined pelvic and femoral reconstruction in children with cerebral palsy

Objective

The primary aim of this study was to determine the effect of age, femoral head migration, and ambulatory status on radiographic outcomes after combined pelvic and femoral reconstruction in children with cerebral palsy. The secondary aim was to evaluate the fate of the opposite hip after unilateral reconstruction.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study design of consecutive patients from 1995–2009 was used. The records were screened for patients who underwent varus derotational osteotomy and modified Dega osteotomy.

Results

Eighty-five hips in 71 patients were included. The mean age was 8.4 ± 3.2 years and the mean follow-up was 6.6 ± 3.1 years. The final measures were a mean migration index of 20% ± 15.58%, centre edge angle of 28.45° ± 15.98°, and Sharp’s angle of 40.75° ± 8.5°. Those values were not correlated with age and the initial migration index. Nonambulatory status did not negatively affect hip stability. Final measurements of the contralateral hips were similar to the reconstructed hips, and the cumulative incidence for later reconstruction was 5.67%.

Conclusions

Regardless of age, preoperative displacement, and ambulation, the combined procedure provides durable radiographic improvement. In unilateral cases, there is a low risk of later deterioration of the opposite side.

Professionals' Perceptions about the Need for Pain Management Interventions for Children with Cerebral Palsy in South African School Settings

Pain is common in children with cerebral palsy (CP) and may have negative consequences for children's success in their studies. Research has shown that pain in childhood negatively influences individuals' participation and quality of life in later years. This study investigated how professionals in South African school settings respond to children's need for pain management in an attempt to enable the children to be active participants in school activities, despite their pain. The study was descriptive and followed a qualitative design (i.e., focus group interviews with semistructured questions and a conventional content analysis). Five government schools for children with special education needs in South Africa's Gauteng province participated. Participants/Subjects: Thirty-eight professionals who represented eight professions. Professional statements on the topic were collected from five focus group sessions conducted during one week. Qualitative content analysis of the data was performed. Similar statements were combined, coded, and sorted into main categories and subcategories. The analysis identified three main categories for pain management: environmental, treatment, and support strategies. In addition, four groups of statements emerged on how contextual factors might affect pain in children with CP and their participation in school settings. It is important to train professionals in pain management and to implement structured models for pain prevention and management to ensure that best practices are adhered to for children with CP who suffer from acute or chronic pain.

The head-shaft angle of the hip in early childhood: a comparison of reference values for children with cerebral palsy and normally developing hips

The recognition of hips at risk of displacement in children with cerebral palsy (CP) is a difficult problem for the orthopaedic surgeon. The Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) and head-shaft angle (HSA) are prognostic factors for hip displacement. However, reference values for HSA are lacking. This study describes and compares the development of HSA in normal hips and children with CP. We selected 33 children from a retrospective cohort with unilateral developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) (five boys, 28 girls) and 50 children (35 boys, 15 girls) with CP with GMFCS levels II to V. HSA of normal developing hips was measured at the contralateral hip of unilateral DDH children (33 hips) and HSA of CP children was measured in both hips (100 hips). Measurements were taken from the radiographs of the children at age two, four and seven years. The normal hip HSA decreased by 2° per year (p < 0.001). In children with CP with GMFCS levels II and III HSA decreased by 0.6° (p = 0.046) and 0.9° (p = 0.049) per year, respectively. The HSA did not alter significantly in GMFCS levels IV and V. Between the ages of two and eight years, the HSA decreases in normal hips and CP children with GMFCS level, II to III but does not change in GMFCS levels IV to V. As HSA has a prognostic value for hip displacement, these reference values may help the orthopaedic surgeon to predict future hip displacement in children with CP.

Determinants of Hip Displacement in Children With Cerebral Palsy

BACKGROUND

Coxa valga and femoral anteversion often are seen in patients with spastic hip displacement and osteotomy is recommended. However, the relationship between femoral deformities and hip displacement has not been clearly defined and other factors, such as joint motion and posture, should be considered before recommending treatment.

QUESTIONS

For children with cerebral palsy with Gross Motor Function Classification System Level IV or V, we questioned (1) whether hip abduction range correlates with hip displacement, (2) what the relationships are between proximal femoral deformities and hip displacement, and (3) whether the patient with a windblown posture has greater degrees of femoral anteversion?

METHODS

We retrospectively studied 31 consecutive children with cerebral palsy with Level IV or V gross motor function who underwent three-dimensional CT for preoperative assessment of hip displacement between January 2010 and December 2013. Among the children, 23 had a windblown posture and eight had symmetric hip motion. Femoral anteversion and true neck-shaft angle were measured from the three-dimensional CT images. Migration percentage was the dependent variable we chose to study in relation to femoral anteversion, neck-shaft angle, maximal hip abduction, and hip flexion contracture, using correlations and multiple linear regressions. Using ANOVA and Scheffé's post hoc tests, we analyzed and compared the data of 23 abducted hips and 23 adducted hips in the 23 children with windblown posture and in 16 displaced hips in the eight children with symmetric hip abduction.

RESULTS

Greater migration percentage was associated with less hip abduction range (r = -0.86; p < 0.001). Femoral anteversion had a weak correlation (r = 0.28; p < 0.05) to migration percentage, and the association became insignificant after considering hip abduction motion. Adducted windblown hips had greater femoral anteversion than the symmetric displaced hips and abducted windblown hips (46° vs 36° and 38°, respectively; p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study results did not support a relationship between femoral deformities and hip displacement after considering gross motor function and hip abduction motion. Greater femoral anteversion was noted in the adducted hips of patients with windblown posture, and derotation osteotomy is especially recommended.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, diagnostic study.

The prognostic value of the head-shaft angle on hip displacement in children with cerebral palsy

BACKGROUND

Hip displacement is the second most common deformity in cerebral palsy (CP). The risk for hip displacement is related to the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS). Recently, the head-shaft angle (HSA) has been identified as a predictor for hip displacement and the aim of this study is to assess the predictive value of the HSA for hip displacement in CP.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort, we performed radiological measurements in 50 children on both hips. In children with GMFCS level II (30 hips), III (30 hips), IV (20 hips) and V (20 hips), we measured the HSA and migration percentage (MP) in three age intervals: age two years (T1), age four years (T2) and age seven years (T3).

RESULTS

At T1, the HSA was larger (more valgus) in hips that will displace than in hips that will not displace (174° vs. 166°; p = 0.001) and was also larger in higher GMFCS levels (IV-V vs. II-III) (172° vs. 165°; p < 0.001). At T1, GMFCS [odds ratio (OR) 14.7; p = 0.001] and HSA (OR 1.102; p = 0.043) were predictors for hip displacement at T3, but at T2, MP (OR 1.071; p = 0.010) was the only predictor for hip displacement at T3.

CONCLUSIONS

The HSA at two years is larger in hips that will displace and larger in children with higher GMFCS levels (IV-V). At age two years, GMFCS and HSA are valuable predictors for hip displacement, but at the age of four years, only MP should be used in the prediction of hip displacement.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic study, level II.

Systematic Review of Cerebral Palsy Registries/Surveillance Groups: Relationships between Registry Characteristics and Knowledge Dissemination

The aims of this study were to provide a comprehensive summary of the body of research disseminated by Cerebral Palsy (CP) registries and surveillance programs from January 2009 through May 2014 in order to describe the influence their results have on our overall understanding of CP. Secondly, registries/surveillance programs and the work they produced were evaluated and grouped using standardized definitions and classification systems.

METHOD

A systematic review search in PubMed, CINAH and Embase for original articles published from 1 January 2009 to 20 May 2014 originating from or supported by population based CP registries and surveillance programs or population based national registries including CP were included. Articles were grouped by 2009 World CP Registry Congress aim, registry/surveillance program classification, geographical region, and the International Classification of Function, Disability and Health (ICF) domain. Registry variables were assessed using the ICF-CY classification.

RESULTS

Literature searches returned 177 articles meeting inclusion criteria. The majority (69%) of registry/surveillance program productivity was related to contributions as a Resource for CP Research. Prevention (23%) and Surveillance (22%) articles were other areas of achievement, but fewer articles were published in the areas of Planning (17%) and Raising the Profile of CP (2%). There was a range of registry/surveillance program classifications contributing to this productivity, and representation from multiple areas of the globe, although most of the articles originated in Europe, Australia, and Canada. The domains of the ICF that were primarily covered included body structures and function at the early stages of life. Encouragingly, a variety of CP registry/surveillance program initiatives included additional ICF domains of participation and environmental and personal factors.

INTERPRETATION

CP registries and surveillance programs, including novel non-traditional ones, have significantly contributed to the understanding of how CP affects individuals, families and society. Moving forward, the global CP registry/surveillance program community should continue to strive for uniformity in CP definitions, variables collected and consistency with international initiatives like the ICF so that databases can be consolidated for research use. Adaptation to new technologies can improve access, reduce cost and facilitate information transfer between registrants, researchers and registries/surveillance programs. Finally, increased efforts in documenting variables of individuals with CP into adulthood should be made in order to expand our understanding of CP across the lifespan.