Abstract:

Objective To analyze the effect of Botulinum toxin-A (BTX-A) block on the upper extremity spasticity in children with cerebral palsy. Methods From January 2004~December 2011, 47 children with spastic hemiplegic cerebral palsy were divided into control group (n=25) and experimental group (n=22). The control group was administered by occupational therapy. The experimental group was treated by BTX-A block in addition. The dose of BTX-A block was identified with the body weight of the child and the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS). The dose of injection ranged from 30 IU to 110 IU, average (50.7±12.7) IU. Results There was no significant difference between 2 groups in scores of MAS and Simple Test for Evaluating Hand Function (STEF) before treatment (P>0.05). The MAS score reduced in the experimental group 1 month after treatment (P<0.01), and was lower in the experimental group than in the control group (P<0.05). The score of STEF increased in both groups (P<0.05), and it was higher in the experimental group than in the control group (P<0.01). Conclusion The BTX-A block can decline the upper extremity muscle tone in children with cerebral palsy efficiently, and help to improve the upper extremity function.

Key words: cerebral palsy, spasm, hemiplegia, Botulinum toxin type A, upper extremity, motor function, nerve block