Selective dorsal rhizotomy in cerebral palsy: the efficiency and the specific features of rehabilitation

Abstract

Selective dorsal rhizotomy is one of the methods used for surgical correction of spasticity in the muscles of the lower limbs with high level of evidence among the patients with cerebral palsy. At the same time, the long-term positive results after surgery can be achieved only when combining surgical treatment with rehabilitation activities. The provided literature review contains a historic reference on the development of the technology along with the current data on the efficiency of surgical intervention with the analyzed research results in terms of the methods and the specific features of rehabilitation among the patients with the diagnosis of cerebral palsy after selective dorsal rhizotomy. Just like other treatment methods, selective dorsal rhizotomy does not exclude the probability of developing complications, but the individual approach during the course of combined, long-term and intensive rehabilitation, as well as following the clinical protocols, can minimize these risks. Stable improvement of motor functions, as well as an increase in the quality of life among patients after selective dorsal rhizotomy and combined rehabilitation courses, confirm the efficiency and the perspectivity of this method.

Keywords

cerebral palsy / selective dorsal rhizotomy / spasticity / rehabilitation / physical therapy

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