Selective dorsal rhizotomy outcomes in mixed spasticity and dystonia cases.

Introduction: 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.

Method: 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.

Results: 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.

Conclusion: 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.