The use of minimally invasive techniques in multi-level surgery for children with cerebral palsy

Clinical functional outcome measures for children with cerebral palsy after gait corrective orthopaedic surgery: A scoping review

AIM

To identify the most frequently reported non-instrumented measures of gait, activity, and participation in children with cerebral palsy (CP) after undergoing gait corrective orthopaedic surgery.

METHOD

Four databases were searched from database inception to the 9th December 2021 for studies that evaluated functional outcomes for children with CP under 18 years undergoing gait corrective orthopaedic surgery.

RESULTS

Of 547 citations, 44 publications (n = 3535 participants, n = 1789 males, mean age 10 years 5 months [SD = 3 years 3 months], Gross Motor Function Classification System levels I-III at the time of surgery) were eligible for inclusion. Fourteen different outcome measures were used: one measure of gait, 10 measures of activity, and three measures of participation. Gait was measured with the Edinburgh Visual Gait Scale (EVGS; 4 out of 44). The most common activity and participation measures were the Functional Mobility Scale (FMS; 15 out of 44) and Pediatric Outcomes Data Collection Instrument (11 out of 44) respectively. No studies reported a combination of gait, activity, and participation measures.

INTERPRETATION

The EVGS and FMS should be considered as core outcome measures in gait corrective orthopaedic surgery, while a measure of participation is unclear. Additional considerations for developing a comprehensive suite of outcomes include identifying a combination of clinical measures and performance-reflective questionnaires that are standardized for children with CP undergoing surgery and meaningful to clinicians and families.

Short-Term Outcome of Rehabilitation Program with Hybrid Assistive Limb after Tendon Lengthening in Patients with Cerebral Palsy

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the short-term outcomes of a rehabilitation program with the Hybrid Assistive Limb® after soft tissue lengthening in young patients with cerebral palsy. We assessed six patients with cerebral palsy who underwent soft tissue surgery followed by gait training using the Hybrid Assistive Limb®. Clinical assessments were conducted preoperatively, before, immediately after, and at 1, 2, and 3 months after gait training. Gross Motor Function Measure was improved 5.93 ± 6.11% (mean ± standard deviation, p < 0.05), Canadian Occupational Performance Measure performance was improved 3.12 ± 1.53 points, and satisfaction was improved 3.80 ± 2.14 points (p < 0.05). The knee extension strength on the operated side was changed 7.75 ± 4.97 Nm after the intervention (p = 0.07). In ambulatory patients, gait speed was changed 8.37 ± 1.72 m/min, stride length was changed 10 ± 6.16 cm, and 6 min walking distance was changed 52 ± 16 m after the intervention. Training with the Hybrid Assistive Limb® may improve walking ability and clinical outcomes in young patients with cerebral palsy after soft tissue lengthening.

Ankle Dorsiflexor Function after Gastrocsoleus Lengthening in Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Literature Review

Background and Objectives: Ambulant children with cerebral palsy can demonstrate persistent “foot drop” after successful gastrocsoleus lengthening (GSL) surgery for equinus deformity. This may be due to inadequate strength and/or selective motor control of the ankle dorsiflexor muscles. A procedure has been developed to reduce foot drop—Tibialis Anterior Tendon Shortening (TATS), to be performed in conjunction with GSL. However, it is currently unclear how ankle dorsiflexor function changes after surgery and which children could benefit from TATS. This review summarises changes in ankle dorsiflexor function after GSL for equinus, as reported in the literature. Methods: A search was performed of the Medline, Embase and PubMed databases from 1980 to 5 March 2021. Keywords included “cerebral palsy”, “equinus deformity”, “orthopedic procedures” and “gait analysis”. The search identified 1974 studies. Thirty-three cohort studies met the inclusion criteria for this review. Results: Twenty-two studies reported improvement in swing phase ankle dorsiflexion kinematics, after GSL. There was also evidence that clinical measures of ankle dorsiflexor strength improved after surgery. Four studies reported changes in selective motor control, with mixed results across the studies. Conclusions: There is good evidence that swing phase ankle dorsiflexion improves after GSL surgery. Although, there is limited evidence that this correlates with reduced foot drop or diminished need for an ankle-foot orthosis. Future research should be prospective, randomised, include a large sample size, and should focus on identifying the optimal candidates for TATS.

Effects of minimally invasive surgery and functional physiotherapy on motor function of children with cerebral palsy: A non-randomised controlled trial

Purpose

This non-randomised controlled trial investigated whether a combined programme of functional physiotherapy and minimally invasive orthopaedic surgery improves the level and degree of capacity and performance of gross motor function in children with spastic cerebral palsy (CP).

Methods

Fifty-two children with spastic CP aged 5-7 years, Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels II-IV, were allocated to two equal groups: experimental group (selective percutaneous myofascial lengthening [SPML] procedure and 9-month functional strengthening physiotherapy programme) and control (standard physiotherapy) groups. At baseline and at the end of the 9-month intervention, the capacity and performance of gross motor function were assessed with the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM) D and E subcategories and Functional Mobility Scale (FMS), respectively. The level of gross motor function was measured with the GMFCS.

Results

There was a statistically significant difference in the post-intervention improvements in the GMFM D (experimental mean difference = 19.63 ± 10.46; control mean difference = 2.40 ± 4.62) and E (experimental mean difference = 19.33 ± 11.82; control mean difference = 4.20 ± 6.26) between experimental and control group (p < 0.001). There was a significant improvement in the GMFCS level and each FMS distance for the experimental group (p < 0.001), but not for the control group (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

SPML procedure combined with functional physiotherapy improves gross motor function in children with spastic CP, by raising the degree and level of motor independence.

A comparison of conventional and minimally invasive multilevel surgery for children with diplegic cerebral palsy

AIMS

To compare changes in gait kinematics and walking speed 24 months after conventional (C-MLS) and minimally invasive (MI-MLS) multilevel surgery for children with diplegic cerebral palsy (CP).

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 19 children following C-MLS, with mean age at surgery of 12 years five months (seven years ten months to 15 years 11 months), and 36 children following MI-MLS, with mean age at surgery of ten years seven months (seven years one month to 14 years ten months), was performed. The Gait Profile Score (GPS) and walking speed were collected preoperatively and six, 12 and 24 months postoperatively. Type and frequency of procedures as part of MLS, surgical adverse events, and subsequent surgery were recorded.

RESULTS

In both groups, GPS improved from the preoperative gait analysis to the six-month assessment with maintenance at 12 and 24 months postoperatively. While reduced at six months in both groups, walking speed returned to preoperative speed by 12 months. The overall pattern of change in GPS and walking speed was similar over time following C-MLS and MI-MLS. There was a median of ten procedures per child as part of both C-MLS (interquartile range (IQR) 8.0 to 11.0) and MI-MLS (IQR 7.8 to 11.0). Surgical adverse events occurred in seven (37%) and 13 (36%) children, with four (21%) and 13 (36%) patients requiring subsequent surgery following C-MLS and MI-MLS, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This study indicates similar improvements in gait kinematics and walking speed 24 months after C-MLS and MI-MLS for children with diplegic CP. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(1):192-197.

The orthopaedic aspect of spastic cerebral palsy

Spastic Cerebral Palsy (CP) is the most common form of CP, comprising of 80% of all cases. Spasticity is a type of hypertonia that clinically manifests as dynamic contractures. The dynamic contracture along with the reduced level of physical activity in a child with CP leads to secondary structural and morphological changes in spastic muscle, causing real musculotendinous shortening, known as fixed contractures. When fixed muscle contractures are not treated early, progressive musculoskeletal deformities develop. As a consequence, spastic CP from a static neurological pathology becomes a progressive orthopaedic pathology which needs to be managed surgically. Orthopaedic surgical management of CP has evolved from previous "multi-event single level" procedures to a "single event multilevel" procedures, with changes in selection and execution of treatment modalities. There is increasing evidence that multilevel surgery is an integral and essential part of therapeutic management of spastic CP, but more research is needed to ensure effectiveness of this intervention on all domains of physical disability in CP.

Minimally Invasive SPML Surgery for Children with Cerebral Palsy: Program Development

Improvements in surgical and rehabilitation care are critical to lessen the burden of cerebral palsy (CP), the most common cause of severe physical disability in childhood. The selective percutaneous myofascial lengthening (SPML) surgical procedure is a minimally invasive method designed to improve ambulation by lengthening contracted musculoskeletal tissues. Information on surgical procedures, efficacy, and safety of SPML for children with CP is lacking. Phase 1 of our research is a “proof-of-principle” study for multisite SPML to improve functional mobility of children with CP, and Phase 2 assesses safety, reoperation rates, and efficacy over time in subsequent patient series. Phase 1 was a repeated measurement case series study of 17 children (mean age 7.6 years). One physical therapist, blinded to the surgeon's measurements, measured bilateral knee and ankle motion before and after SPML procedures, using video recordings of a standardized gait path. Functional Mobility Scale (FMS) 5, 50, and 500 outcomes were taken pre- and postoperatively and via telephone follow-up. In Phase 2, multisite SPLM surgeries were implemented in larger successive cohorts from 2006 to 2017. Complications, reoperation rates, and efficacy were retrospectively analyzed. Phase 1 results showed improvement in the children's knee and ankle motion while ambulating and improved FMS 5, 50, and 500 outcomes postoperatively (mean, 6.3 months). At second follow-up (mean 33.3 months), FMS 500 scores continued improvement, while FMS 5 and FMS 50 scores maintained. During Phase 2, the complication rate was 2.4%, and reoperation rates (including reoperations due to maturation) were between 8% and 13%. Improvements to correct ankle equinus were recorded in 498 cases. In conclusion, in a specialized center, single-event, multilevel SPML surgeries of children with CP safely improved ambulatory knee and ankle angle motion and daily mobility outcomes. Future educational studies of training needs for surgeons new to the approach are needed.

What is the functional mobility and quality of life in patients with cerebral palsy following single-event multilevel surgery?

PURPOSE

To report functional mobility in patients with diplegic cerebral palsy (CP) at long-term follow-up after single-event multilevel surgery (SEMLS). The secondary aim was to assess the relationship between functional mobility and quality of life (QoL) in patients previously treated with SEMLS.

METHODS

A total of 61 patients with diplegic CP, mean age at surgery 11 years, eight months (sd 2 years, 5 months), were included. A mean of eight years (sd 3 years, 10 months) after SEMLS, patients were contacted and asked to complete the Functional Mobility Scale (FMS) questionnaire over the telephone and given a weblink to complete an online version of the CP QOL Teen. FMS was recorded for all patients and CP QOL Teen for 23 patients (38%).

RESULTS

Of patients graded Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) I and II preoperatively, at long-term follow-up the proportion walking independently at home, school/work and in the community was 71% (20/28), 57% (16/28) and 57% (16/28), respectively. Of patients graded GMFCS III preoperatively, at long-term follow-up 82% (27/33) and 76% (25/33) were walking either independently or with an assistive device at home and school/work, respectively, while over community distances 61% (20/33) required a wheelchair. The only significant association between QoL and functional mobility was better 'feelings about function' in patients with better home FMS scores (r = 0.55; 95% confidence interval 0.15 to 0.79; p = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

The majority of children maintained their preoperative level of functional mobility at long-term follow-up after SEMLS.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Functional outcomes after selective dorsal rhizotomy followed by minimally invasive tendon lengthening procedures in children with spastic cerebral palsy

Many surgical options have been proposed to improve the ambulatory status of children with spastic cerebral palsy (CP), but none have focused on addressing both spasticity and lower extremity tendon contractures. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the results of selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) followed by minimally invasive tendon lengthening allowing immediate return to ambulation. Two hundred fifty-five spastic CP patients (who received SDR procedure at an average age of 6.9±2.6  years and tendon lengthening procedure at an average age of 7.2±2.5  years) were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were grouped by the gross motor function classification system (GMFCS) 1-3 and 4-5. Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazard model using a requirement for additional tendon lengthening as an end point were conducted. Tendon lengthening followed SDR at an average of 4.3±10.7  months. On an average of 4.9±1.2  years after tendon lengthening, GMFCS was improved in 28 and maintained in 213 patients, respectively. There was no difference of variables and joint angles between the two GMFCS groups. A repeat tendon lengthening was required in 19 patients. The Kaplan-Meier analysis showed 81% success rate. Cox proportional hazard model identified age at tendon lengthening [hazards ratio (HR), 0.53; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.37-0.76] and duration between SDR and tendon lengthening of more than 6  months (HR, 2.96; 95% CI, 1.05-8.33) associated with need for a repeat tendon lengthening procedure. Our novel approach of SDR/tendon lengthening results in improved joint angles as well as stable or improved GMFCS. Longer follow-up is necessary to determine if this approach could prolong ambulatory ability and reduced need for more invasive orthopedic surgeries.

Percutaneous Hamstring Lengthening Surgery is as Effective as Open Lengthening in Children With Cerebral Palsy

BACKGROUND

Surgical lengthening of the hamstrings is often performed to correct crouch gait in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Previous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of open hamstring lengthening (oHSL) in improving knee extension static and dynamic range of motion; however, literature regarding percutaneous hamstring lengthening (pHSL) is limited. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of open versus pHSL for improving crouch gait and knee function in children with CP.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included 87 ambulatory children with CP who underwent HLS surgery with both preoperative and postoperative gait analysis (mean time, 29.4±19.9 mo after surgery) testing between 1997 and 2015. In total, 65 patients underwent oHLS surgery (mean age, 8.5±2.5 y) and 22 patients underwent pHSL surgery (mean age, 8.3±2.3 y). Lower extremity three-dimensional kinematic data were collected while subjects walked at a self-selected speed. Outcome variables for operative limbs were compared within and between groups using t tests, χ tests, and multiple regression analysis.

RESULTS

Significant postoperative decreases in knee flexion at initial contact were seen for both open (Δ12.7±13.4 degrees; P<0.001) and percutaneous (Δ19.1±13.1 degrees; P<0.001) groups. Increased postoperative maximum knee extension in stance was found for both open (Δ8.2±16.8 degrees; P=0.001) and percutaneous (Δ14.4±16.5 degrees; P=0.001) groups. No significant differences between open and percutaneous groups were found when comparing postoperative changes in kinematic variables between groups after adjusting for covariates. Postoperative changes in static range of motion were similar between lengthening groups.

CONCLUSIONS

pHSL is as effective as open lengthening in improving stance phase knee kinematics during gait in children with CP. This is the first study to compare the kinematic effects of open versus pHSL in the pediatric population. Percutaneous lengthening is tolerated well by patients, and as it allows for rapid rehabilitation it may be preferable to the open procedure.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III-retrospective comparative study.

Multilevel Surgery for Children With Cerebral Palsy: A Meta-analysis

CONTEXT

Multilevel surgery (MLS) is standard care for reducing musculoskeletal disorders among children with spastic cerebral palsy (CP).

OBJECTIVE

To summarize the literature examining effects of MLS and satisfaction with MLS for children with CP.

DATA SOURCES

Medline, Embase, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched.

STUDY SELECTION

Studies in which authors reported effects of or satisfaction with MLS in children with CP were selected.

DATA EXTRACTION

Two authors screened and extracted data on gross motor function, gait speed, gait (eg, Gait Profile Score), range of motion, strength, spasticity, participation, quality of life, satisfaction, and adverse events.

RESULTS

Seventy-four studies (3551 participants) were identified. One was a randomized controlled trial (RCT) (n = 19); the remainder were cohort studies. Pooled analysis of cohort studies revealed that MLS did not have a long-term effect on gross motor function (standardized mean difference [SMD]: 0.38; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.25 to 1.01) or gait speed (SMD: 0.12; 95% CI: -0.01 to 0.25) but did improve gait (SMD: -0.80; 95% CI: -0.95 to -0.65). The RCT also revealed no effect of MLS on gross motor function but improvements in the Gait Profile Score at 1 year. Participation and quality of life were reported in only 5 studies, and adverse events were adequately reported in 17 studies.

LIMITATIONS

Data were largely from cohort studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings reveal that gait, but not gross motor function, improves after MLS. RCTs and improved reporting of studies of MLS are required.

Improving gait and lower-limb muscle strength in children with cerebral palsy following Selective Percutaneous Myofascial Lengthening and functional physiotherapy

BACKGROUND

Selective Percutaneous Myofascial Lengthening (SPML) is an innovative minimally invasive surgical procedure, using micro incisions often combined with alcohol nerve block, for managing muscle contractures and stiffness in children with cerebral palsy (CP). There is lack of evidence of effects of a combined intervention of SPML and physiotherapy on gait function and muscle strength in CP.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the change in gait function and muscle strength in children with CP who underwent gait laboratory assessment before and after SPML, combined with obturator nerve blocks, and 9-month post-surgical functional physiotherapy.

METHODS

Ten children with bilateral spastic CP, Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level II-IV, age 5-7 years, participated in this study. The Global Gait Graph Deviation Index (Global GGDI) and isometric muscle strength (hand-held dynamometry) were the primary outcome measures. Changes in spatiotemporal gait parameters, gross motor function and GMFCS level were secondarily examined.

RESULTS

A significant improvement of Global GGDI was found (p < 0.05). The mean strength in hip flexors, extensors and adductors, knee extensors, and ankle dorsiflexors increased significantly (p < 0.05). Children improved significantly their GMFCS level and gross motor capacity (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

SPML procedure combined with functional physiotherapy can improve gait function and lower-limb muscle strength.

Predictors affecting outcome after single-event multilevel surgery in children with cerebral palsy: a systematic review

AIM

To review the potential predictors of outcome after single-event multilevel surgery (SEMLS) in children with cerebral palsy (CP).

METHOD

A literature search using the following criteria was performed in six electronic databases: (1) children with cerebral palsy; (2) analysed potential predictors of outcome after SEMLS; (3) minimum 12 months follow-up. The potential predictors were predefined: sex; topographical distribution; socio-economic status; Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level; preoperative kinematic summary statistic; age at surgery. Study quality was appraised with the methodological index for non-randomized studies (MINORS) and the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine scale.

RESULTS

Of the seven studies identified, the MINORS scores ranged from 9 to 11 and all were graded 2b on the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine scale. There was little or no evidence to support sex, topographical distribution, or socio-economic status as predictive factors after SEMLS. Preoperative Gait Profile Score (GPS) was the best measure of expected improvement in gait kinematics. Parent-reported satisfaction and GPS were best after SEMLS in children graded GMFCS II. The best long-term results were seen in those aged between 10 years and 12 years of age.

INTERPRETATION

The candidate who might expect to realize the most improvement from SEMLS is aged between 10 years and 12 years, is in GMFCS level II, and has a poor preoperative GPS.

WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS

Children aged 10 to 12 years, in Gross Motor Function Classification System level II, with a poor preoperative Gait Profile Score might expect to realize the most improvement after single-event multilevel surgery.

A Systematic Review of the Effects of Single-Event Multilevel Surgery on Gait Parameters in Children with Spastic Cerebral Palsy

BACKGROUND

Three-dimensional gait analysis (3DGA) is commonly used to assess the effect of orthopedic single-event multilevel surgery (SEMLS) in children with spastic cerebral palsy (CP).

PURPOSE

The purpose of this systematic review is to provide an overview of different orthopedic SEMLS interventions and their effects on 3DGA parameters in children with spastic CP.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search within six databases revealed 648 records, from which 89 articles were selected for the full-text review and 24 articles (50 studies) included for systematic review. The Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine Scale and the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) were used to appraise and determine the quality of the studies.

RESULTS

Except for one level II study, all studies were graded as level III according to the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine Scale. The MINORS score for comparative studies (n = 6) was on average 15.7/24, while non-comparative studies (n = 18) scored on average 9.8/16. Nineteen kinematic and temporal-distance gait parameters were selected, and a majority of studies reported improvements after SEMLS interventions. The largest improvements were seen in knee range of motion, knee flexion at initial contact and minimal knee flexion in stance phase, ankle dorsiflexion at initial contact, maximum dorsiflexion in stance and in swing phase, hip rotation and foot progression angles. However, changes in 3DGA parameters varied based on the focus of the SEMLS intervention.

DISCUSSION

The current article provides a novel overview of a variety of SEMLS interventions within different SEMLS focus areas and the post-operative changes in 3DGA parameters. This overview will assist clinicians and researchers as a potential theoretical framework to further improve SEMLS techniques within different SEMLS focus groups. In addition, it can also be used as a tool to enhance communication with parents, although the results of the studies can't be generalised and a holistic approach is needed when considering SEMLS in a child with spastic CP.

Is percutaneous proximal gracilis tenotomy as effective and safe as the open procedure?

PURPOSE

There is currently an increasing trend for percutaneous surgical interventions mainly in children with cerebral palsy (CP). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of percutaneous proximal gracilis tenotomy (PPGT) in children with CP scheduled for hip adductor tenotomy.

METHODS

This is a prospective study of 59 hips in 31 consecutive patients with CP scheduled for hip adductor tenotomy in the setting of multilevel tenotomies or hip osteotomy (femoral or Dega). A pediatric orthopedic surgeon conducted a percutaneous adductor longus and gracilis tenotomy through the same stab wound. Another surgeon extended the wound to explore what had been cut during the PPGT, and completed the tenotomy if necessary (open proximal gracilis tenotomy; OPGT). Hip abduction with the hip and knee extended (HA) was assessed by a third surgeon (1) immediately before PPGT, i.e., directly after percutaneous adductor longus tenotomy (prePPGT), (2) after PPGT (postPPGT), and (3) following OPGT (postOPGT), using a goniometer, in a standardized reproducible manner. All three surgeons were blinded to each other's findings. Primary end-points included the percentage of muscle portion sectioned percutaneously and the improvement of HA angle. Comparison between HA before and after PPGT was performed using a paired t test with 95 % confidence interval (CI), and comparison between HA after PPGT and OPGT was performed using a Student's t-test with 95 % CI. The bleeding was assessed and other iatrogenic lesions were identified. The relationship between HA after PPGT and the percentage of muscle portion sectioned percutaneously was evaluated by calculating the Pearson correlation coefficient (p < 0.01).

RESULTS

Mean HA measured 33.71 degrees prePPGT and increased to 45.90 degrees postPPGT (p < 0.0001). The postOPGT HA averaged 48.71 degrees with no statistically significant gain compared with postPPGT (p = 0.21). The muscular portion of gracilis origin was cut to an average of 91.95 %; completely in only 14 hips, between 90 and 100 % in 35 hips, between 70 and 90 % in 9 hips, and between 60 and 70 % in 1 hip. The gain in HA did not correlate with the extent of the muscular portion sectioned percutaneously (R = -0.043). Minimal accidental section of adductor brevis postPPGT was encountered in 39 hips. Considerable bleeding postPPGT with hematoma formation requiring hemostasis during the open control procedure occurred in 30 hips. Partial iatrogenic injury of the anterior branch of the obturator nerve was encountered in one patient bilaterally with severe adductor contracture, due to an anatomic too medial variant.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the only prospective study concerning the outcome of PPGT. Although PPGT is fast, simple and effective, it is not as safe as the open procedure even when performed correctly by an experienced surgeon, mainly because of the increased risk of bleeding. The findings of the current study do not support its use as a 'standard-of-care' technique in children with hip adductor contracture.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II therapeutic study-prospective comparative study.

Asymmetric pelvic and hip rotation in children with bilateral cerebral palsy: uni- or bilateral femoral derotation osteotomy?

Internal rotation gait is common among children with bilateral cerebral palsy. However, despite bilaterally increased femoral anteversion asymmetric internal rotation gait is often found. Femoral derotation osteotomy (FDO) is commonly performed bilaterally. Variable functional outcomes are reported especially in cases with mild internal hip rotation during gait and abnormal preoperative pelvic rotation. A major question is if a unilateral treatment of the more involved side in asymmetric cases leads to a comparable or even superior outcome. One hundred and nine children with spastic bilateral CP treated with FDO with pre- and 1-year postoperative 3D gait analysis were retrospectively collected. The asymmetry was calculated from the preoperative difference between both limbs in hip rotation obtained by 3D gait analysis. Twenty-eight children with asymmetry larger than 20° were selected and classified into two groups, according to whether they obtained a unilateral or bilateral FDO. Preoperative clinical examination and pre- and postoperative hip and pelvic rotation in gait analysis on the more and the less involved side did not differ significantly between both groups. Interestingly, in both groups, hip rotation did not change significantly in less-involved limbs, although intraoperative derotation averaged 25°. After unilateral FDO a significant change in pelvic rotation resulted, whereas this was not found after bilateral FDO. The results of this study suggest that unilateral FDO in children with asymmetric internal rotation gait leads to a comparable functional outcome compared to bilateral treatment. Furthermore, it was shown for the first time that considering the asymmetry has a positive effect on pelvic rotation.

[Bilateral spastic cerebral palsy with ambulatory ability (diplegia): pathophysiology, state of the art of conservative and surgical treatment and rehabilitation]

BACKGROUND

Infantile cerebral palsy is one of the most common diseases resulting in chronic disability and is mostly concomitant with impairment in the ability to walk.

DISEASE PATTERN

Muscle contractions typically develop during the growth phase with subsequent joint contracture and instability as well as bone deformities to various extents. From a biomechanical viewpoint the gait impairment is due to a lever arm dysfunction.

THERAPEUTIC STRATEGIES

The therapy concept is multimodal and involves conservative as well as operative measures. The objectives are to lower the muscle tonus, to avoid muscle and joint contractures and bone deformities and to correct already fixed malformations in order to achieve the best possible function for the patient. Complicated multilevel operations are often necessary to achieve this aim.

CONCLUSION

Extensive knowledge on the biomechanics of gait and the pathobiomechanics of spastic bilateral cerebral palsy are necessary to carry out surgery. Using instrumental gait analyses the biomechanical relationships can be analyzed better and complicated operations can be planned with greater precision.

The effect of femoral derotation osteotomy on transverse plane hip and pelvic kinematics in children with cerebral palsy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

The purpose of this study was to systematically review the current literature to determine the effect of a femoral derotation osteotomy (FDRO) on hip and pelvic rotation kinematics during gait compared to no intervention in children with spastic cerebral palsy (CP). We performed a systematic search for prospective and retrospective cohort studies of children with CP, who were treated with a FDRO, and were assessed with pre and post surgery three-dimensional gait analysis. Medline, CINAHL, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library and Web of Science were searched up to December 2013. Data sources were prospective and retrospective studies. Mean differences were calculated on pooled data for both pelvic and hip rotation kinematics. Thirteen of 196 articles met the inclusion criteria (5 prospective, 8 retrospective). All included studies were of sufficient quality for meta-analysis as assessed using a customised version of the STROBE checklist. Meta-analysis showed that FDRO significantly reduced pelvic retraction by 9.0 degrees and hip internal rotation by 17.6 degrees in participants with unilateral CP involvement and hip internal rotation by 14.3 degrees in participants with bilateral CP involvement. Pelvic symmetry in children with unilateral spastic CP is significantly improved by FDRO. Patients with bilateral involvement do not improve their transverse plane pelvic rotation profiles during gait as a result to FDRO, although this result should be interpreted with caution due to the heterogeneous nature of these participants and of the methods used in the studies assessed.

Percutaneous femoral derotational osteotomy for excessive femoral torsion

Femoral derotational osteotomy is an acceptable treatment for excessive femoral torsion. The described procedure is a minimally invasive single-incision technique based on an intramedullary saw that enables an inside-out osteotomy, preserving the periosteum and biological activity in the local bone and soft tissue. After the osteotomy is complete and correction is achieved, an expandable intramedullary nail is used to achieve immediate stability, without the need for locking screws. Indications, tips, and pitfalls related to this novel osteotomy technique are discussed.

Explaining the variability improvements in gait quality as a result of single event multi-level surgery in cerebral palsy

PURPOSE

This is a study of all children with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy (Gross Motor Classification System levels II and III) who had single event multi-level surgery (SEMLS) at a single tertiary referral hospital between 1995 and 2008 to identify factors predicting improvement in gait quality as quantified by the gait profile score (GPS). 9 factors (5 dichotomous and 4 continuous, including preoperative GPS) that might be expected to predict outcomes were identified and univariate and multivariable analysis used to explore how these affected outcomes.

SCOPE

Data from 121 children were included. The mean improvement in GPS of 4.3° was 2.7 times the minimal clinically important difference. Univariate analysis suggested that preoperative GPS is a very strong predictor of improvement in GPS (p<10(-5)) and when this is considered as a covariate only GMFCS level (p=10(-5)) and having had previous surgery (p=0.026) were found to be statistically significant predictors of GPS improvement (p<0.05). Children of GMFCS level II improved on average by 2° more than those of level III once differences in preoperative GPS had been accounted for.

CONCLUSION

Children with the most abnormal gait patterns preoperatively, and hence those with the most potential to improve are those that improve the most and surgery has clearly been beneficial. Over a quarter of children show changes in GPS which were less than the MCID. The majority of these were those with the least abnormal gait patterns preoperatively and further research is required to establish whether and how such children benefit from SEMLS.

Single Event Multilevel Surgery in children with bilateral spastic cerebral palsy: a 5 year prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Single Event Multilevel Surgery (SEMLS) is considered the standard of care to improve gait and function in children with bilateral spastic cerebral palsy (BSCP). We have demonstrated in a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of SEMLS, that gait was improved at 12 months after surgery and gross motor function at 24 months after surgery. The question addressed in this study, was to determine if improvements in gait and function, would be maintained at 5 year follow-up.

METHODS

Nineteen children with BSCP, GMFCS levels II (14 children) and III (5 children), mean age 9.7 years (range 7.7-12.2 years) participated in a prospective cohort study following participation in a RCT, with follow-up to 5 years. Outcome measures were Gait Profile Score (GPS), Gillette Gait Index (GGI), Gait Deviation Index (GDI), Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM66) and Functional Mobility Scale (FMS).

RESULTS

Eighteen children have completed follow-up, with interval analysis at 1, 2 and 5 years post SEMLS. One child was excluded because of neurological deterioration and his diagnosis was revised to Hereditary Spastic Paraparesis (HSP). GPS improved by 5.29° and GMFM66 by 3.3% at 5 years post SEMLS. Differences between outcome measures at 1 versus 5 years and 2 versus 5 years (except GMFM66) were not significant, indicating that improvements in gait and gross motor function were stable over time.

CONCLUSIONS

SEMLS results in clinically and statistically significant improvements in gait and function, in children with BSCP, which were maintained at 5 years after surgery.

Does the level of proximal femur rotation osteotomy influence the correction results in patients with cerebral palsy?

Proximal femur external rotation osteotomy is a common procedure used for the correction of increased femur anteversion and hip internal rotation in cerebral palsy (CP). Different levels of osteotomy have been used at the proximal femur, but there are no studies in the literature comparing the results in CP. Patients with spastic CP, Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) I-III, who had undergone a femoral rotational osteotomy from August 1998 to August 2007, and with complete documentation at gait laboratory were included in the study. Patients were divided into two groups according to the level of osteotomy at the proximal femur. Group A [Dynamic Compression Plate (DCP) group] included 24 patients (36 osteotomies), and the osteotomy in this group was performed below the lesser trochanter. In Group B (Blade Plate group), 29 patients (35 osteotomies) were included and the level of osteotomy was above the lesser trochanter. Age at surgery, sex distribution, follow-up time, previous surgical procedures, surgical procedures performed in the same session as femur osteotomy, GMFCS level, topographic classification, clinical findings (internal and external hip rotation, and femur anteversion), and hip rotation at kinematics were analyzed and the results were compared between groups. Groups A and B were matched in terms of the sex distribution, follow-up time, GMFCS levels, and severity of clinical findings and hip internal rotation at kinematics before surgery. The mean age of the patients at surgery was 9.24 years in group A and 12 years in group B, and this difference was significant on performing statistical analysis (P=0.004). The number of patients who had undergone previous hip adductors' tenotomy was higher in group B (P=0.036). Improvements in clinical and kinematics parameters were observed in both groups after femur osteotomy (P<0.001). The increase in hip external rotation at clinical examination and the reduction in hip internal rotation at kinematics did not show differences between groups A and B on performing statistical analysis. However, reduction of femoral anteversion (P=0.032) and hip internal rotation (P=0.002) were more remarkable in group B. In conclusion, reduction of hip internal rotation and femur anteversion at physical examination were more significant in patients with intertrochanteric osteotomies; however, improvement in kinematics was observed in both groups after surgical procedures.

Management of children with ambulatory cerebral palsy: an evidence-based review. Commentary by Hugh Williamson Gait Laboratory staff

The evaluation of complex interventions, such as Single Event Multilevel Surgery (SEMLS) requires more than randomized controlled trials. Rehabilitation following SEMLS is prolonged and the outcomes of interest may not be apparent for 5 years or more after the surgery. We suggest long term, prospective cohort studies with objective outcome measures be recognized as of equal importance to randomized controlled trials. The evidence in support of instrumented gait analysis (IGA) is also reviewed. We suggest that clinical levels of evidence are not an appropriate method to evaluate a measurement tool. Specifically, IGA should be evaluated in terms of validity, reliability and cost effectiveness. We demonstrate that the use of IGA has improved medium and long term outcomes in ambulant children with cerebral palsy in a center where IGA has been used routinely both for planning SEMLS and for monitoring outcomes.

Long-term outcome of femoral derotation osteotomy in children with spastic diplegia

Satisfactory short-term results after femoral derotation osteotomy (FDO) for the treatment of internal rotation gait in cerebral palsy have been reported by various authors. However, there are only a few longer-term studies reporting results 5 years after FDO and these are not in agreement. There are no reports on the clinical course beyond the pubertal growth spurt. 33 children with diplegia (n=59 legs, age: 10.5±3.6 years) and internally rotated gait were examined pre- (E0), 1 year (E1), 3±1 (E2) and 9±2 (E3) years after distal (27 legs) or proximal (32 legs) FDO as part of multilevel surgery, using standardized clinical exam and 3D gait-analysis at all examinations. The amount of intra-operative derotation averaged 25°. ANOVA was used for statistics (p<0.05). Mean hip internal rotation in stance at E0 of 17.3° was significantly changed to 1.0° of external rotation at E1 and was maintained at 4.2° at E3. The same clinical course was found for foot progression angle. The mid-point of passive hip rotation at E0 was 21°. This was significantly decreased to 6° at E1 and showed a small but significant increase reaching 12° at E3. The results of this study showed a good overall correction of internally rotated gait following FDO. These improvements were maintained at long-term follow-up after the pubertal growth spurt. Recurrence was observed in some cases with overall severe deterioration. In those patients persistent dynamic factors leading to recurrence should be further investigated.

Single-event multilevel surgery for children with cerebral palsy: a systematic review

AIM

To conduct a systematic review of single-event multilevel surgery (SEMLS) for children with cerebral palsy, with the aim of evaluating the quality of the evidence and developing recommendations for future research.

METHOD

The systematic review was conducted using standard search and extraction methods in Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Cochrane electronic databases. For the purposes of this review, SEMLS was defined as two or more soft-tissue or bony surgical procedures at two or more anatomical levels during one operative procedure, requiring only one hospital admission and one period of rehabilitation. Studies were included if: (1) the primary focus was to examine the effect of SEMLS in children with cerebral palsy; (2) the results focused on multiple anatomic levels and reported findings of one or more World Health Organization International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) domains. Studies that focused on a single intervention or level, or on the utility of a specific outcome measure were excluded. Study quality was appraised with the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) and the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine scale. The review also examined the reporting of surgery, adverse events, and rehabilitation.

RESULTS

Thirty-one studies fulfilled the criteria for inclusion, over the period 1985 to October 2010. The MINORS score for these studies varied from 4 to 19, with marked variation in the quality of reporting. Study quality has improved over recent years. Valid measures of gait and function have been introduced and several of the most recent studies have addressed multiple dimensions of the ICF. A statistical synthesis of the outcome data was not conducted, although a trend towards favourable outcomes in gait was evident. Caution is advised with interpretation owing to the variable study quality. Uncontrolled studies may have resulted in an overestimation of treatment efficacy.

INTERPRETATION

The design and reporting of studies of SEMLS are improving with the development of multidisciplinary teamwork and frameworks such as the ICF. However, the evidence base is limited by the lack of randomized clinical trials, especially when compared with other surgical interventions such as selective dorsal rhizotomy.

Severe crouch gait in spastic diplegia can be prevented

We studied the prevalence of severe crouch gait over a 15-year period in a defined population of children with spastic diplegia and Gross Motor Function Classification System levels II and III, to determine if there had been a decrease following changes to the management of equinus gait. These changes were replacing observational with three-dimensional gait analysis, replacing single level with multilevel surgery, and replacing gastrocsoleus lengthening with gastrocnemius recession. Of 464 children and adolescents with spastic diplegia who underwent three-dimensional gait analysis, 27 had severe crouch gait. Seventeen of these had been managed by isolated lengthening of the gastrocsoleus. Following changes in the management of equinus gait, the prevalence of severe crouch gait decreased from 25% and stabilised at a significantly lower rate, fluctuating between 0% and 4% annually (p < 0.001).

We conclude that severe crouch gait in this population was precipitated by isolated lengthening of the gastrocsoleus. These findings may be relevant to other surgical populations, as severe crouch gait may be a useful way to monitor the quality of the surgical management of abnormal gait in children with cerebral palsy and spastic diplegia.

Muscle strength and walking ability in diplegic cerebral palsy: implications for assessment and management

Muscle weakness is a recognised problem in children with Cerebral Palsy (CP). Changes in the understanding of motor control, and progress in the treatment of spasticity, have led to a greater appreciation that spastic muscles are also weak. In recent years weakness has been identified in isolated muscle groups, but studies quantifying the degree and distribution of weakness in multiple muscles remain limited. This study evaluated isometric lower limb muscle strength in 50 ambulant children with CP/Spastic Diplegia (mean age 11 years 7 months) at GMFCS levels I (n=14), II (n=26) and III (n=10). Muscle strength was compared with 15 control children (mean age 11 years 1 month) using the same protocol. Six muscle groups in both lower limbs were measured using a digital dynamometer. All lower limb muscles were significantly weaker in the CP children than in healthy children (p<0.05) except for the hip extensors. Muscle strength ranged from 43% to 90% of control values depending on the muscle group, with the knee extensors measured at 30° being the relatively weakest group. There was a significant difference in strength between GMFCS levels in 4/6 muscle groups with a progressive reduction in strength in all muscle groups with increasing walking difficulty from GMFCS levels I to III. The greatest difference in strength between independent walkers and those dependent on walking aids was in the hip abductors and knee extensors at 30°, which are key muscle groups in sagittal and coronal plane walking stability. This has implications in targetting strength training to maximise functional outcomes.