INTRODUCTION: Selective posterior rhizotomy (SPR) is effective for reducing spasticity associated to infantile cerebral palsy (ICP). To avoid excessive muscular hypotone a different surgical technique is proposed. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Sixteen children with spasticity secondary to ICP were evaluated before and after rhizotomy. The degree of spasticity was compared in the lower an in the upper limbs. Dorsal roots of levels L4, L5, and S1 were analyzed and sectioned according to the results yielded by intraoperative electrical stimulation. RESULTS: Spasticity was reduced in all the muscular groups analyzed. One of the patients had bladder incontinence. CONCLUSIONS: The limited surgical procedure is sufficient for reducing spasticity.
INTRODUCTION: Selective posterior rhizotomy (SPR) is effective for reducing spasticity associated to infantile cerebral palsy (ICP). To avoid excessive muscular hypotone a different surgical technique is proposed. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Sixteen children with spasticity secondary to ICP were evaluated before and after rhizotomy. The degree of spasticity was compared in the lower an in the upper limbs. Dorsal roots of levels L4, L5, and S1 were analyzed and sectioned according to the results yielded by intraoperative electrical stimulation. RESULTS:Spasticity was reduced in all the muscular groups analyzed. One of the patients had bladder incontinence. CONCLUSIONS: The limited surgical procedure is sufficient for reducing spasticity.