Cerebral palsy

Cerebral palsy is caused by a static lesion to the cerebral motor cortex that is acquired before, at, or within 5 years of birth. Multiple causes for the condition exist and include cerebral anoxia, cerebral hemorrhage, infection, and genetic syndromes. Cerebral palsy is commonly classified according to the type of movement problem that is present (spastic or athetoid) or according to the body parts involved (hemiplegia, diplegia, or quadriplegia). To care for children with cerebral palsy, a team approach is most effective; the team should include the pediatrician and orthopedist, among others. In the nonambulatory patient, good sitting posture, the prevention of hip dislocation (spastic hip disease), and the maintenance of proper custodial care are prime concerns. Careful monitoring and treatment of spastic hip disease and the correction of scoliotic spinal deformity are also important. In the ambulatory patient, the main goal is to maximize function. Computerized gait analysis in patients with complex gait patterns helps to show whether orthotic or surgical treatment is indicated. In this paper, we also review both the proper indications for orthopedic intervention in patients with upper extremity involvement and recent methods to control spasticity, such as selective dorsal rhizotomy and administration of botulinum toxin or intrathecal baclofen.