Partial selective denervation in spastic palsies (hyponeurotization).

Treating spastic palsies is a difficult problem. Hyponeurotization is a technique in which peripheral nerves are partially and selectively denervated to diminish spasm in muscles, hence reducing spasticity and tenseness so inimical to movement. Hyponeurotization can be performed in all spastic patients who are capable of cooperating. It should be avoided in cases of athetosis and brain impairment. Partial denervation is employed to reduce spasm; tenotomies, tendon lengthening, and myoectomy are employed to increase length in retracted muscles. Secondary surgery is usually required to further correct the spasm after the "adoption" phenomenon is complete. The results with hyponeurotization have been good in a high percentage of cases in which the surgery strictly adhered to basic principles.