Abstract: Objective To investigate if Carroll Upper Extremities Functional Test (UEFT) is a better rating scale for evaluating fine motor function in children with cerebral palsy. Methods From January, 2011 to January, 2014, 104 children with cerebral palsy were divided into non-hemiplegic palsy group (n=76) and hemiplegic palsy group (n=28), they were assessed by two certified valuers in one week. Their fine motor function was evaluated with UEFT and the Gesell Developmental Scale. The scores of UEFT were compared respectively with the developmental age (DA) and developmental quotient (DQ) in fine motor domain of Gesell Developmental Scale. At the same time, the UEFT score of the affected limb was compared with of the unaffected limb in children with hemiplegic palsy. Results In the non-hemiplegic palsy group, the UEFT score strongly correlated with DA (r=0.752, P<0.001) and moderately correlated with DQ (r=0.456, P<0.001). In the hemiplegic palsy group, the UEFT score of the unaffected limb strongly correlated with DA (r=0.722, P<0.001), and a moderate correlation was found in the affected limb (r=0.591, P<0.001). The UEFT scores of both sides did not correlated with DQ (r<0.186, P>0.05). The UEFT score of unaffected limb was significantly higher than that of the affected limb (Z=-4.708, P<0.001). Conclusion Both of UEFT and the Gesell Developmental Scale could be used clinically in assessment of fine motor function in children with cerebral palsy. The UEFT was better in evaluating children with hemiplegic palsy.

Key words: cerebral palsy, fine motor, Carroll Upper Extremities Functional Test, Gesell Developmental Scale