Selective dorsal rhizotomy outcomes in mixed spasticity and dystonia cases

This study investigated the effects of selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) on dystonia and dystonic posture in patients with cerebral palsy (CP) presenting with mixed spasticity and dystonia.

A prospective, single-centre study was conducted at a UK supra-regional centre from May 2013 to September 2022. All children with spasticity, dystonia and/or dystonic posture undergoing SDR were included. The primary outcome measure was pre- and postoperative assessment of dystonic posture. Dystonia severity was measured using the Barry-Albright dystonia (BAD) scale.

Two hundred and fifty-seven patients (aged 3–18 years) underwent SDR. Forty-three patients had dystonia and 52 exhibited dystonic posture without dystonia. At 3-month follow-up (n = 29), GMFCS levels tended to decrease, returning to baseline at 6 months (n = 25). Two patients required medication adjustments post-surgery. Dystonia levels remained unchanged in the dystonia group. In the dystonic posture group, 33 patients showed no change, while 21 improved.

SDR may be beneficial for carefully selected patients with dystonia or dystonic posture, without worsening these conditions. Optimal patient selection, clear communication of surgical goals and multidisciplinary involvement are crucial.