Selective peripheral denervation for lower limbs spasm in patients with cerebral palsy

Objective To explore the therapeutic effect of selective peripheral denervation on lower limbs spasm in the patients with cerebral palsy. Methods The clinical data of 380 patients with low limbs spasm due to cerebral palsy, who underwent selective peripheral denervation from January, 2003 to March, 2008, were analyzed retrospectively. Based on the position of spasticity, corresponding selective peripheral neurotomy was performed. The nerves which were cut offincluded spinal dorsal root of lumbosacral region, sciatic nerve, obturator nerve, and tibial nerve. Results The relief rate of the lower limbs spasm was 100% after the neurotomy in 380 patients. The operative complications included decrease in the muscle strength the involved limbs in 82 cases and numbness or sensory disturbance of the involved limb in 142 cases. All the cases were followed up from 6 months to 3 years. The relief rate of the limbs spasm is 95% and 95% of the patients improved in walking manner during the following up. Conclusion The selective peripheral denervation is a safe and effective method to treat lower limbs spasm in the patients with cerebral palsy.