Effect of selective dorsal rhizotomy on daily care and comfort in non-walking children and adolescents with severe spasticity

Background

In non-walking children with severe spasticity, daily care can be difficult and many patients suffer from pain. Selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) reduces spasticity in the legs, and therefore has the potential to improve daily care and comfort.

Aim

To examine effects of SDR on daily care and comfort in non-walking children with severe spasticity due to different underlying neurological conditions.

Methods

Medical history, changes in daily care and comfort and satisfaction with outcome were assessed retrospectively in non-walking children who underwent SDR in our center, with a mean follow-up of 1y 7m (range 11m–4y 3m). All eligible patients (n = 24, years 2009–2014) were included.

Results

Mean age at SDR was 12y 4m (SD 4y 3m, range 2y 8m–19y 3m). Associated orthopaedic problems were frequent. Seven patients underwent scoliosis correction in the same session. Most improvements were reported in dressing (n = 16), washing (n = 12) and comfort (n = 10). Median score for satisfaction was 7 on a scale of 10 (range 1–9). SDR resulted in reduction of spasticity in leg muscles. In nine patients dystonia was recorded post-operatively, mainly in children with congenital malformations and syndromes.

Interpretation

SDR is a single event intervention that can improve daily care and comfort in non-walking children with severe spasticity, and can safely be combined with scoliosis correction. Despite the improvements, satisfaction is variable. Careful attention is necessary for risk factors for dystonia, which may be unmasked after SDR.