Selective posterior lumbosacral rhizotomy for the management of cerebral palsy spasticity. A 10-year experience.

One hundred and sixty-eight patients had selective lumbosacral posterior rhizotomies for the treatment of cerebral palsy spasticity at Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital and Groote Schuur Hospital during the 10-year period 1981-1991. There was no mortality and insignificant early postoperative morbidity. Long-term follow-up on 110 patients has revealed satisfactory tone reduction in 95% of cases. The majority showed improvement in standing, sitting and locomotion. Thirteen patients had minor persistent sensory disturbances and 20% have developed asymptomatic spondylolysis or grade I spondylolisthesis. Most therapists, patients and parents remain enthusiastic about the results of this procedure.