Search

Objectives Selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) is used to improve spasticity, gait, and pain in children with spastic diplegia. There is growing evidence supporting its long-term benefits in terms of functional outcomes, independence, and quality of life. There is, however, little contemporary work describing the surgical morbidity of this irreversible procedure. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the surgical outcomes and complications of SDR at a single United Kingdom center. Methods Demographics, surgical, postoperative, and follow-up data for all patients undergoing SDR between 2011 and 2016 were collected from medical records. Results Preoperative Gross Motor Function Classification System levels in 150 consecutive patients were II (35%), III (65%), and IV (1%). Median age was 6 years and 58% were male patients. There were no deaths, cerebrospinal fluid leaks, returns to theater, or readmissions within 30 days. There were no new motor or sphincter deficits. Postoperative neuropathic pain was reported by 5.3% and sensory symptoms by 8.7%. Other complications included: postoperative nausea and vomiting (19.3%), superficial wound infection (3.3%), urinary retention (1.3%), headache (6.7%), and urine or chest infection (4.7%). Follow-up data were available for all patients (93% to 12 months, 72% to 24 months). Persistent neuropathic symptoms were reported in 6.5% at 24 months. Conclusions SDR using a single-level approach is a safe procedure with low surgical morbidity. This study complements the growing evidence base in support of SDR for spastic diplegia and should help inform decisions when considering treatment options.

Achondroplasia is a common cause of short stature. The condition is often encountered on the Trauma and Orthopaedic FRCS examination. This review covers the aetiology, clinical and radiographic features. Current general and orthopaedic treatments are discussed including potential medical developments with natriuretic peptide.

Pyomyositis of the obturator externus muscle is a rare cause of limp and hip pain in children. The exact etiology of the condition remains poorly understood, although a mechanism of transient bacteremia in association with increased muscle susceptibility has been proposed. This case describes the course of a rather than 1 child from presentation to diagnosis and demonstrates the requirement for magnetic resonance imaging in establishing a diagnosis.