Effects of selective posterior rhizotomy on spastic cerebral palsy

AIM:To investigate the effects of selective posterior rhizotomy(SPR)to spastic cerebral palsy.METHODS:55 patients with spastic cerebral palsy who were treated with SPR between April 1999 and January 2002 were followed up and compared their changes of muscle force,muscle tone,the limb function preoperatively and postoperatively.RESULTS:51 had selective lumbosacral posterior rhizotomy.In 35 cases who could not walk preoperatively,25 could walk alone.6 cases imroved their gait ad walk ability and 4 did not significantly.20 cases who walked claudicantly preoperatively,can walk nimbly and firmly.Their step width extended and gait improved apparently.4 cases had selective cervical posterior rhizotomy.They had their spasm of upper limbs relieved,joint function improved,and clawhand disappeared.In this group we didn't find severe complications.CONCLUSION:Selective posterior rhizotomy has curative effect to spastic cerebral palsy and has no severe complications.Its long-term effects still need observations.