The first meta-analysis of randomized controlled surgical trials in cerebral palsy (2002)

Robert W. Armstrong

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

1 Citation (Scopus)

Abstract

This study is a comparative analysis and meta-analysis of three randomized clinical trials. Children with spastic diplegia received either 'selective' dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) plus physiotherapy (SDR+PT) or PT without SDR (PT-only). Common outcome measures were used for spasticity (Ashworth scale) and function (Gross Motor Function Measure [GMFM]). Baseline and 9- to 12-month outcome data were pooled (n=90). At baseline, 82 children were under 8 years old and 65 had Gross Motor Function Classification System level II or III disability. Pooled Ashworth data analysis confirmed a reduction of spas-ticity with SDR+PT (mean change score difference -1.2; Wil-coxon p<0.001). Pooled GMFM data revealed greater functional improvement with SDR+PT (difference in change score +4.0, p=0.008). Multivariate analysis in the SDR+PT group revealed a direct relationship between percentage of dorsal root tissue transected and functional improvement. SDR+PT is efficacious in reducing spasticity in children with spastic diplegia and has a small positive effect on gross motor function.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)244
Number of pages1
JournalDevelopmental Medicine and Child Neurology
Volume50
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Apr 2008
Externally publishedYes

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