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Hand function in children with cerebral palsy after upper‐limb tendon transfer and muscle release
Author(s) -
Eliasson AnnChristin,
Ekholm Catarina,
Carlstedt Thomas
Publication year - 1998
Publication title -
developmental medicine and child neurology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.658
H-Index - 143
eISSN - 1469-8749
pISSN - 0012-1622
DOI - 10.1111/j.1469-8749.1998.tb15427.x
Subject(s) - cerebral palsy , tendon transfer , tendon , wrist , forearm , medicine , physical medicine and rehabilitation , upper limb , physical therapy , activities of daily living , grip strength , psychology , surgery
Thirty‐two children with hand dysfunction due to cerebral palsy were examined before tendon transfer and muscle release, and 9 months postoperatively. All children improved their performance regardless of the degree of impaired hand function. The main advantage of surgery was a more functional position of the hand with increased wrist extension and forearm supination. There were also increased functionality of handgrips, grip strength, and dexterity. Impaired sensibility before surgery did not influence the outcome. Individual goals were set preoperatively. Individual functional goals outlined before surgery were met by most children. Children identified as having mild impairments gained new functional skills related to everyday activity (self‐care and leisure), while children with severely impaired hand function demonstrated enhanced grasping ability, as well as a better cosmetic appearance.