ABSTRACT
Cerebral palsy is a syndrome characterized by abnormal motor function, with spasticity being one of the most crippling manifestations. Selective dorsal rhizotomy, a neurosurgical procedure, has successfully decreased the degree of spasticity for the child with cerebral palsy. The utilization of this procedure may enable the child with cerebral palsy to demonstrate improved motor function, creating an exciting nursing challenge. This article describes dorsal rhizotomy and the nursing care involved. The protocol of treatment and care provided at Texas Children's Hospital is also described.
Subject(s)
Cerebral Palsy/surgery , Ganglionectomy/nursing , Cerebral Palsy/nursing , Cerebral Palsy/physiopathology , Child , Child, Preschool , Ganglia, Spinal , Ganglionectomy/methods , Humans , Infant , Patient Care Planning , Patient Care Team , Patient DischargeABSTRACT
Pediatric craniofacial defects as a result of congenital malformation, tumor, or trauma are devastating to both the child and the family. These patients require extensive education, preparation, careful monitoring and psychological support. With continuing advances in surgical technology and technique, the effectiveness and utilization of pediatric craniofacial surgery is increasing. As this type of surgery is currently available at relatively few institutions, it has created a new nursing experience. A multi-disciplinary team approach has evolved at Texas Children's Hospital which necessitates active involvement of nursing staff. In this article the multi-disciplinary approach and nursing care utilized in the perioperative management of the craniofacial pediatric surgery patient will be discussed.
