Surgery for Cerebral Palsy

Several different surgeries may be used to treat symptoms of cerebral palsy.

Orthopaedic Surgery

Orthopaedic surgery can be used to treat spinal deformities in children with CP, as well as to lengthen muscles and tendons that have contracted and are restricting movement. Because muscles and tendons that have been surgically lengthened take months to heal, most doctors usually attempt to operate on all affected muscles and tendons at the same time.

Neurosurgery

This type of surgery is done on the brain, in an attempt to reduce symptoms such as spasticity, rigidity, and tremors. There are four types of neurosurgery used to treat CP.

A type of surgery called dorsal root rhizotomy severs the nerves that over stimulate leg muscles, and may reduce spasticity. Stereotaxic thalamotomy cuts parts of the thalamus—the part of the brain that relays messages from muscles to sensory organs—to reduce tremors. Stereotactic neurosurgery sends electrical impulses via electrode into brain tissue, in an effort to improve tremor and rigidity. Finally, chronic cerebellar stimulation involves the implantation of electrodes on the surface of the cerebellum, and may decrease spasticity while improving overall motor function.

These surgeries may not work for everyone, and each surgery has its risks and complications. Your doctor will be able to tell you whether your child is a good candidate for any of these surgeries, and will also be able to educate you on potential risks and rewards.