Efficacy of conservative treatment for spastic cerebral palsy children with equinus gait: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Comparisons between various conservative managements of spastic equinus deformity in cerebral palsy demonstrated limited evidences, to evaluate the efficacy of conservative treatment among cerebral palsy children with spastic equinus foot regarding gait and ankle motion. METHODS: Studies were identified from PubMed and Scopus up to February 2022. Inclusion criteria were randomized controlled trial (RCT), conducted in spastic cerebral palsy children with equinus deformity, aged less than 18 years, compared any conservative treatments (Botulinum toxin A; BoNT-A, casting, physical therapy, and orthosis), and evaluated gait improvement (Physician Rating Scale or Video Gait Analysis), Observational Gait Scale, Clinical Gait Assessment Score, ankle dorsiflexion (ankle dorsiflexion at initial contact, and passive ankle dorsiflexion), or Gross Motor Function Measure. Any study with the participants who recently underwent surgery or received BoNT-A or insufficient data was excluded. Two authors were independently selected and extracted data. Risk of bias was assessed using a revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials. I2 was performed to evaluate heterogeneity. Risk ratio (RR), the unstandardized mean difference (USMD), and the standardized mean difference were used to estimate treatment effects with 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS: From 20 included studies (716 children), 15 RCTs were eligible for meta-analysis (35% had low risk of bias). BoNT-A had higher number of gait improvements than placebo (RR 2.64, 95% CI 1.71, 4.07, I2 = 0). Its combination with physical therapy yielded better passive ankle dorsiflexion at knee extension than physical therapy alone (USMD = 4.16 degrees; 95% CI 1.54, 6.78, I2 = 36%). Casting with or without BoNT-A had no different gait improvement and ankle dorsiflexion at knee extension when compared to BoNT-A. Orthosis significantly increased ankle dorsiflexion at initial contact comparing to control (USMD 10.22 degrees, 95 CI% 5.13, 15.31, I2 = 87%). CONCLUSION: BoNT-A and casting contribute to gait improvement and ankle dorsiflexion at knee extension. BoNT-A specifically provided gait improvement over the placebo and additive effect to physical therapy for passive ankle dorsiflexion. Orthosis would be useful for ankle dorsiflexion at initial contact. Trial registration PROSPERO number CRD42019146373.

Tratamiento del equinismo con yesos progresivos / Treatment of equinus with serial casting

Introducción El pie equino en niños produce un patrón de marcha inestable e ineficiente y un inadecuado posicionamiento en silla de ruedas. El tratamiento mediante ciclo de yesos seriados mantiene el rango de movimiento, facilitando el desarrollo de patrones de movimiento normales. Su uso combinado con toxina botulínica tiene efectos beneficiosos demostrados, pero faltan pautas para establecer el protocolo de tratamiento óptimo. Objetivo Describir las características de la población con equinismo de diversa etiología y determinar la efectividad del tratamiento con yesos. Valorar su uso junto con toxina botulínica en pacientes con parálisis cerebral espástica. Material y método Estudio analítico longitudinal retrospectivo sobre una muestra de 95 tendones de Aquiles de niños atendidos en consulta de rehabilitación infantil entre 2012 y 2018, con flexión dorsal de tobillo menor de 10°, tratados mediante ciclo de yesos con o sin toxina botulínica. Variables analizadas: sexo, año de comienzo, edad, IMC, diagnóstico, tratamiento previo y/o posterior, espasticidad (Ashworth modificada), lateralidad, rango articular pasivo y activo de flexión dorsal y plantar junto con R1 (escala de Tardieu). Mediciones realizadas con inclinómetro mecánico antes del primer, segundo y tercer yeso, tras el tercer yeso y a los 2, 8 y 14 meses. Fue analizado estadísticamente mediante SPSS. Resultados Existe una mejora estadísticamente significativa de 10,02° (p<0,01) entre flexión dorsal pasiva previa al primer yeso y tras el tercero, manteniéndose en 6,66° (p=0,02) entre la previa y a los 14 meses. Conclusiones Los yesos progresivos son un método efectivo en el control del equinismo de cualquier etiología, con una tasa mínima de complicaciones (AU)

Introduction Equinus in children produces a pattern of unsteady gait and inefficient and inadequate positioning in the wheelchair. Treatment with a serial casting cycle maintains range of motion and facilitates the development of normal movement patterns. Its use in combination with botulinum toxin has proven benefits, but there is a lack of guidance on the optimal management protocol. Objective The aim of this study were to describe the characteristics of the population with equinus of diverse aetiology and to determine the effectiveness of treatment with serial casting. We also aimed to assess its use in conjunction with botulinum toxin in patients with spastic cerebral palsy. Material and method This longitudinal retrospective study included a sample of 95 Achilles tendons of children attended in a children's rehabilitation clinic between 2012 and 2018, with ankle dorsal flexion less than 10°, treated by a cycle of serial casts with or without botulinum toxin. The variables analysed were sex, year when treatment started, age, BMI, diagnosis, previous and/or later treatment, spasticity (modified Ashworth), laterality, active and passive joint range of dorsal and plantar flexion along with R1 (Tardieu). Measurements were carried out with a mechanical inclinometer prior to the first, second and third cast, after the third cast and at 2, 8 and 14 months. The statistical analysis was performed with SPSS®. Results There was a statistically significant improvement of 10.02° between passive dorsal flexion prior to the first cast and after the third cast, which remained at 6.66° (P=.02) between the former and after 14 months. Conclusions Serial casting is an effective method in the management of equinus of any aetiology and has a minimal complication rate (AU)

Electrical stimulation of antagonist muscles after botulinum toxin type A for post-stroke spastic equinus foot. A randomized single-blind pilot study.

BACKGROUND: Botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A) injection is an effective treatment for lower-limb spasticity and should be offered as first-line treatment for focal manifestations. Although its possible role has been hypothesized, the efficacy of electrical stimulation (ES) of antagonists of the injected muscles for improving clinical outcome after BoNT-A injection remains to be established. OBJECTIVES: This randomized single-blind pilot study aimed to investigate the efficacy of ES of antagonist muscles as adjunct treatment after BoNT-A injection to plantar flexor muscles in hemiplegic patients with spastic equinus foot. METHODS: After BoNT-A injection at triceps surae, patients were randomly allocated to 2 groups: group 1, single ES session on injected muscles plus 5 sessions of ES on antagonist muscles, and group 2, single ES session on injected muscles alone. Both groups underwent daily physical therapy for 60min for 2 weeks (5 days/week). Assessments were performed before treatment (T0) and at 10 days (T1), 20 days (T2), and 90 days (T3) after treatment. Our primary outcome was gait velocity at a comfortable speed at T2 (10-m walk test [10MWT]). The following were secondary outcomes: triceps surae spasticity (Modified Ashworth Scale), ankle passive range of motion (pROM), strength of tibialis anterior muscle, and 2-min walk test (2MWT). RESULTS: The 30 patients enrolled were randomly allocated to the 2 groups: 15 in group 1 and 15 in group 2. At T1, T2 and T3, both groups showed a significant reduction in muscle tone and an increase in ankle pROM (P<0.05). At T2 and T3, both groups showed a significant increase in 10MWT and 2MWT. The groups did not significantly differ in tibialis anterior strength or primary or secondary outcome measures. CONCLUSIONS: ES of antagonist muscles does not improve clinical outcomes in the post-stroke spastic equinus foot after BoNT-A injection.

Evidence-based Recommendations for Pediatric Orthopaedic Practice.

BACKGROUND: The evidence-based approach to guide clinical practice has gained great importance in the medical field. High-quality evidence is of paramount importance to inform clinical decision-making and optimize patient outcomes. The generation of high-quality evidence relies on sound methodology and study design to facilitate appropriate interpretation and subsequent application of the clinical findings. The purpose of this review is to objectively critique the methodological design and clinical findings of 2 pediatric orthopaedic studies on children with cerebral palsy (CP) to assess their potential to impact clinical practice. METHODS: This is the second in a series of evidence-based reviews in pediatric orthopaedics. The pediatric orthopaedic literature was reviewed for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in 2015 and 2016. One RCT was selected from the journal Pediatrics, and one RCT was selected from the journal Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology, both investigating the use of botulinum toxin for the treatment of spastic equinus in children with CP. These RCTs were subjected to in-depth methodological review by orthopaedic surgeons with advanced research degrees and a PhD researcher. Two clinical experts then reviewed the articles to rate the clinical impact or value of each study. Methodological and clinical reviews were compiled, and a final recommendation on impact to change clinical practice was made based on both review components at the consensus of the panel. RESULTS: The first study reviewed investigated the single-dose efficacy and safety of botulinum neurotoxin type-A (1BoNT-A) in children with CP-associated spasticity and equinus foot deformity. The reviewers deemed the placebo-controlled study to be of sound design, and conclusions appropriate for the methodology used and clinical findings. Although findings suggest 1BoNT-A may provide benefit in treating equinus foot deformity, the optimal dose for achieving maximal impact on functional improvement remains undetermined. The second study reviewed investigated the impact of multiple dosing schedules on spastic equinus in CP. Although of relatively sound design, this study was limited by a small sample size and lack of justification for the chosen effect size. Without further study, no recommendation to change clinical practice could be made. CONCLUSIONS: Both RCTs reviewed were superiority studies, the first demonstrating efficacy of botulinum toxin over placebo, the second showing no significant difference in 4- and 12-monthly botulinum toxin injections. SIGNIFICANCE: Despite a positive result demonstrating an effect of botulinum toxin treatment on spastic equinus in CP, the long-term functional impact and optimal dose remains to be determined. In addition, the negative result in the second study demonstrates the need for a noninferiority trial design to appropriately demonstrate no difference between 2 treatment options.

AbobotulinumtoxinA (Dysport®) Improves Function According to Goal Attainment in Children With Dynamic Equinus Due to Cerebral Palsy.

This secondary analysis of a large (n = 241), randomized, double-blind study evaluated the efficacy of 2 doses of abobotulinumtoxinA + standard of care (SOC) versus placebo + SOC in enabling children with dynamic equinus due to cerebral palsy to achieve their functional goals using Goal Attainment Scaling. Most parents/caregivers selected goals targeting aspects of gait improvement as most relevant. Mean (95% confidence interval) Goal Attainment Scaling T scores at week 4 were higher for both abobotulinumtoxinA groups versus placebo (treatment difference vs placebo: 10 U/kg/leg: 5.32 [2.31, 8.32], P = .0006, and 15 U/kg/leg 4.65 [1.59, 7.71], P = .0031). Superiority of both abobotulinumtoxinA doses versus placebo was maintained at week 12. Best goal attainment T scores were higher in the abobotulinumtoxinA groups versus placebo for the common goals of improved walking pattern, decreased falling, decreased tripping, and improved endurance. These findings demonstrate that single injections of abobotulinumtoxinA (10 and 15 U/kg/leg) significantly improved the ability of pediatric cerebral palsy patients to achieve their functional goals.

Cost-minimization analysis in the treatment of spasticity in children with cerebral palsy with botulinum toxin type A: an observational, longitudinal, retrospective study / Análisis de minimización de costes del tratamiento de la espasticidad en niños con parálisis cerebral con toxina botulínica tipo A: un estudio observacional, longitudinal, retrospectivo

Objective: Cost-minimization analysis of onabotulinumtoxinA and abobotulinumtoxinA, taking into account the real dose administered to children with spasticity associated with dynamic equinus foot deformity due to cerebral palsy. Method: A single centre, observational, longitudinal, and retrospective study which included spastic paediatric patients aged 2-to-18-years and treated with onabotulinumtoxinA or abobotulinumtoxinA from December 1995 to October 2012, in the Paediatric Neurology Unit of a first-level Spanish hospital. A longitudinal analysis of spasticity severity was made to confirm the similar efficacy of both treatments. Cost minimization was analyzed using the dose administered and the direct costs (pharmacological and medical visits costs) from the perspective of the National Health System (in euros from 2016). Results: We analyzed 895 patients with paediatric spasticity: 543 were treated only with onabotulinumtoxinA, 292 only with abobotulinumtoxinA, and 60 with both treatments. The mean doses administered were 5.44 U/kg (SD = 2.17) for onabotulinumtoxinA, and 14.73 U/kg (5.26) for abobotulinumtoxinA. The total annual direct cost (pharmacological and medical visits) was €839.56 for onabotulinumtoxinA and €631.23 for abobotulinumtoxinA, which represents a difference of Euro 208.34 per year in favour of treatment with abobotulinumtoxinA. Conclusions: It has been demonstrated that in real clinical practice, the cost per patient and year for treatment of paediatric spasticity was lower when abobotulinumtoxinA was used

Objetivo: Estudio de minimización de costes de onabotulinumtoxinA y de abobotulinumtoxinA, teniendo en cuenta la dosis real administrada, en niños con espasticidad asociada con la deformidad dinámica del pie equino debida a parálisis cerebral. Método: Estudio unicéntrico, observacional, longitudinal y retrospectivo que incluyó pacientes pediátricos espásticos entre 2 y 18 años tratados con onabotulinumtoxinA o abobotulinumtoxinA, entre diciembre del 1995 y octubre del 2012, en el Servicio de Neurología Pediátrica de un hospital español de primer nivel. Se realizó un análisis longitudinal de la gravedad de la espasticidad para confirmar la similar efectividad de ambos tratamientos y proceder al análisis de minimización de costes que contempló las dosis infiltradas y los costes directos (costes farmacológicos y de visitas) desde la perspectiva del Sistema Nacional de Salud (euros 2016). Resultados: Se analizaron 895 pacientes con espasticidad infantil, 543 fueron tratados únicamente con onabotulinumtoxinA, 292 con abobotulinumtoxinA y 60 con ambos tratamientos. Las dosis medias infiltradas obtenidas fueron de 5,44 U/kg (DE = 2,17) para las infiltraciones con onabotulinumtoxinA y de 14,73 U/kg (5,26) para las infiltraciones con abobotulinumto xinA. El coste directo anual total (farmacológico y visitas) fue de 839,56 € para onabotulinumtoxinA y de 631,23 € para abobotulinumtoxinA, lo que supone una diferencia de 208,34 Euros al año a favor del tratamiento con abobotulinumtoxinA. Conclusiones: Se ha mostrado que en práctica clínica real el coste por paciente y año del tratamiento de la espasticidad infantil resulta más económico con la utilización de abobotulinumtoxina

AbobotulinumtoxinA for Equinus Foot Deformity in Cerebral Palsy: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Although botulinum toxin is a well-established treatment of focal spasticity in cerebral palsy, most trials have been small, and few have simultaneously assessed measures of muscle tone and clinical benefit. METHODS: Global, randomized, controlled study to assess the efficacy and safety of abobotulinumtoxinA versus placebo in cerebral palsy children with dynamic equinus foot deformity. Patients were randomized (1:1:1) to abobotulinumtoxinA 10 U/kg/leg, 15 U/kg/leg, or placebo injections into the gastrocnemius-soleus complex (1 or both legs injected). In the primary hierarchical analysis, demonstration of benefit for each dose required superiority to placebo on the primary (change in Modified Ashworth Scale from baseline to week 4) and first key secondary (Physician's Global Assessment at week 4) end points. RESULTS: Two hundred and forty-one patients were randomized, and 226 completed the study; the intention to treat population included 235 patients (98%). At week 4, Modified Ashworth Scale scores significantly improved with abobotulinumtoxinA; mean (95% confidence interval) treatment differences versus placebo were -0.49 (-0.75 to -0.23; P = .0002) for 15 U/kg/leg and -0.38 (-0.64 to -0.13; P = .003) for 10 U/kg/leg. The Physician's Global Assessment treatment differences versus placebo of 0.77 (0.45 to 1.10) for 15 U/kg/leg and 0.82 (0.50 to 1.14) for 10 U/kg/leg were also significant (both Ps < .0001). The most common treatment-related adverse event was muscular weakness (10 U/Kg/leg = 2; placebo = 1). CONCLUSIONS: AbobotulinumtoxinA improves muscle tone in children with dynamic equinus resulting in an improved overall clinical impression and is well tolerated.

Comparison of Efficacy and Side Effects of Oral Baclofen Versus Tizanidine Therapy with Adjuvant Botulinum Toxin Type A in Children With Cerebral Palsy and Spastic Equinus Foot Deformity.

This retrospective study aimed to compare the therapeutic response, including side effects, for oral baclofen versus oral tizanidine therapy with adjuvant botulinum toxin type A in a group of 64 pediatric patients diagnosed with static encephalopathy and spastic equinus foot deformity. Following botulinum toxin A treatment, clinical improvement led to the gradual reduction of baclofen or tizanidine dosing to one-third of the former dose. Gross Motor Functional Measure and Caregiver Health Questionnaire scores were markedly elevated post-botulinum toxin A treatment, with scores for the tizanidine (Gross Motor Functional Measure: 74.45 ± 3.72; Caregiver Health Questionnaire: 72.43 ± 4.29) group significantly higher than for the baclofen group (Gross Motor Functional Measure: 68.23 ± 2.66; Caregiver Health Questionnaire: 67.53 ± 2.67, P < .001). These findings suggest that the combined use of botulinum toxin A and a low dose of tizanidine in treating children with cerebral palsy appears to be more effective and has fewer side effects versus baclofen with adjuvant botulinum toxin A.

A randomized controlled trial of selective neurotomy versus botulinum toxin for spastic equinovarus foot after stroke.

BACKGROUND: Selective neurotomy is a permanent treatment of focal spasticity, and its effectiveness in treating spastic equinovarus of the foot (SEF) was previously suggested by a few nonrandomized and uncontrolled case-series studies. OBJECTIVES: This study is the first assessor-blinded, randomized, controlled trial evaluating the effects of this treatment. METHODS: Sixteen chronic stroke patients presenting with SEF were randomized into 2 groups: 8 patients underwent a tibial neurotomy and the remaining 8 received botulinum toxin (BTX) injections. The soleus was treated in all patients, and the tibialis posterior and flexor hallucis longus were treated in about half of patients. The primary outcome was the quantitative measurement of ankle stiffness (L-path), an objective measurement directly related to spasticity. Participants were assessed by a blind assessor before their intervention and at 2 and 6 months after treatment. Evaluations were based on the 3 domains of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF). RESULTS: Compared with BTX, tibial neurotomy induced a higher reduction in ankle stiffness. Both treatments induced a comparable improvement of ankle kinematics during gait, whereas neither induced muscle weakening. Activity, participation, and quality of life were not significantly modified in either group. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that the tibial nerve neurotomy is an effective treatment of SEF, reducing the impairments observed in chronic stroke patients. Future studies should be conducted to confirm the long-term efficacy based on the ICF domains.

The influence of botulinum toxin A injections into the calf muscles on genu recurvatum in children with cerebral palsy.

BACKGROUND: With cerebral palsy (CP), an equinus deformity may lead to genu recurvatum. Botulinum toxin A (BtA) injection into the calf muscles is a well-accepted treatment for dynamic equinus deformity. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES: The purpose of this study was to determine whether BtA injections into the calf muscles to decrease equinus would decrease coexisting genu recurvatum in children with diplegic CP. METHODS: In a retrospective study, 13 children (mean age, 5 years) with spastic diplegic CP showing equinus and coexisting primary genu recurvatum, who were treated with BtA injections into the calf muscles, were included. Evaluations were done before and 6 and 18 weeks after intervention using three-dimensional gait analysis and clinical examinations according to a standardized protocol. Basic statistical analyses (power analysis, ANOVA) were performed to compare genu recurvatum before treatment and at 6 and 18 weeks after injection with BtA. RESULTS: During stance phase, maximum ankle dorsiflexion was increased substantially from -3.0° ± 14.3° before to 6.2° ± 14.2° 6 weeks after the injections. Despite this, with the numbers available, the amount of recurvatum in stance did not improve with treatment at either 6 or 18 weeks. There was significant improvement of knee hyperextension during stance phase of 6.2° between baseline and 18 weeks after BtA injection, but a genu recurvatum was still present in most patients. CONCLUSIONS: Despite improvement of ankle dorsiflexion after injection with BtA, genu recurvatum did not show relevant improvement at 6 or 18 weeks after injection with the numbers available. Because knee hyperextension remained in most patients, other factors leading to genu recurvatum should be taken into consideration. In addition, a botulinum toxin-induced weakness of the gastrocnemius may explain why recurvatum gait was not significantly reduced. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, therapeutic study. See Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Is spastic muscle echo intensity related to the response to botulinum toxin type A in patients with stroke? A cohort study.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relationship between gastrocnemius muscle echo intensity and response to botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A) in patients with spastic equinus foot resulting from stroke. DESIGN: Cohort study. SETTING: University hospital. PARTICIPANTS: Adult patients (N=56) with spastic equinus foot resulting from stroke scheduled to receive BoNT-A injection into the gastrocnemius muscle. INTERVENTIONS: All patients were injected with BoNT-A (abobotulinumtoxinA) into the gastrocnemius muscle with an ultrasonography-guided, multisite injection technique. The toxin dose was 250U for the gastrocnemius medialis and 250U for the gastrocnemius lateralis (dilution 500U/2mL) in each patient. All patients were evaluated before and 4 weeks after BoNT-A injection. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Spastic gastrocnemius muscle echo intensity visually graded with the Heckmatt scale. Clinical assessment of the spastic gastrocnemius with the Modified Ashworth Scale, Tardieu Scale, and ankle passive range of motion. RESULTS: Postintervention testing at 4 weeks showed overall significant improvements in the clinical assessment of the spastic gastrocnemius muscle. No significant change was observed in the echo muscle intensity of the spastic gastrocnemius after BoNT-A injection. Post hoc comparisons showed that all clinical outcomes were significantly better in those patients with echo muscle intensity of the spastic gastrocnemius graded II on the Heckmatt scale than those with grades III (P<.001) and IV (P<.001) after botulinum toxin injection. CONCLUSIONS: These findings support the hypothesis that patients with higher spastic muscle echo intensity have a reduced response to BoNT-A.

Botulinum toxin type A for the treatment of equinus deformity in patients with mucopolysaccharidosis type II.

Mucopolysaccharidoses are lysosomal storage disorders that are caused by a deficiency in the enzymes that degrade glycosaminoglycans. The accumulation of glycosaminoglycans affects multiple systems, resulting in coarse facial features, short stature, organomegaly, and variable neurological changes from normal intelligence to severe mental retardation and spasticity. Effects on the musculoskeletal system include dysostosis multiplex, joint stiffness, and muscle shortening. This article reports 2 patients with mucopolysaccharidosis type II (Hunter syndrome) who showed progressive equinus deformity of the feet. Both patients were treated with intramuscular botulinum toxin type A injections in the gastrocnemius and the soleus muscles, followed by serial casting. In both patients, passive range of motion, muscle tone, and gait performance were significantly improved. Botulinum toxin type A injections followed by serial casting are a therapeutic option for contractures in patients with mucopolysaccharidosis. However, the long-term effects and the effect of application in other muscles remain unknown.

Spread of botulinum neurotoxin type a at standard doses is inherent to the successful treatment of spastic equinus foot in cerebral palsy: short-term neurophysiological and clinical study.

To evaluate whether botulinum toxin type A at standard doses spreads to antagonist leg muscles in dynamic equinus foot, we studied 18 ambulatory children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy. The gastrocnemius muscle on the affected side was injected with botulinum toxin type A (Dysport) (mean ± standard deviation, 14.3 ± 0.9 U/kg). Compound muscle action potential areas were assessed in the lateral gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior muscles on the treated and untreated sides before botulinum toxin type A injections and on days 10 and 30 after injections. In all patients, compound muscle action potential areas recorded from both the muscles on the treated side decreased from preinjection values at day 10 (P < .05) and 30 (P < .002). After injection, ankle spasticity had diminished (P < .05), equinus foot excursion increased (P < .05), and functional gait improved (P < .05). This study shows that botulinum toxin type A spreads from foot flexors to antagonist extensors and suggests that spread may be partly responsible for improving gait in children with cerebral palsy.

[Efficacy of botulinum toxin in the treatment of dynamic equinus and equinovarus foot deformities in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy].

The objective of the study was to assess factors modulating the efficacy of botulinum toxin injections in the correction of dynamic equinus and equinovarus foot deformities in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy. The efficacy of treatment was evaluated in 40 children. Clinical data including spasticity assessment by the original Ashworth scale, postural and gate changes were collected. Spasticity grade 4-5 by the Ashworth scale and retraction 90-120 degrees reduce the likelihood of successful correction of equinus contracture. Botulinum injections can be used as basic therapy. In cases of transient contracture more than 120 degrees, combined methods of treatment are recommended. The hindfoot varus less 30 degrees, which can be passively corrected before treatment and in the presence of the positive Coleman block test, more likely needs injection in triceps muscle for correction. If the hindfoot varus is more than 30 degrees and the Coleman block test is negative, the combined treatment is necessary.

Early use of Xeomin neurotoxin for local anti-spasticity therapy for pes equines after acquired brain injury (ABI).

PRIMARY OBJECTIVE: The acute management of spasticity following ABI is challenging. Contractures can occur during the acute phases of illness. The joints most affected are the shoulders and the ankles. RESEARCH DESIGN: A case study of a 48-year-old female patient who received local chemoneurolytic anti-spasticity therapy following a severe subarachnoid haemorrhage for pes equines deformity is presented to illustrate the role of focal neurotoxin therapy. METHODS AND PROCEDURES: The increasing spasticity in her legs was observed and could not be effectively treated with oral anti-spasticity agents or intensive physiotherapy. As spasticity increased (Modified Ashworth Scale 4), mobility of the right foot continued to deteriorate, leading to indication for local anti-spasticity treatment with Xeomin neurotoxin. The spastic pes equinus was injected with Xeomin® using a total dose of 150 U. MAIN OUTCOMES AND RESULTS: On the 6th day after injection, a gradual reduction in spasticity was observed in the injected muscle (Modified Ashworth Scale 1-2) and an increasing improvement in joint mobility. CONCLUSIONS: Early local anti-spasticity treatment with Xeomin is effective treatment. The cost of the intervention would appear to be high, but if one compares it with the costs of conservative treatment, it is not more expensive.

Treating spastic equinus foot from cerebral palsy with botulinum toxin type A: what factors influence the results?: an analysis of 189 consecutive cases.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine the variables that improve spastic equinus foot caused by cerebral palsy when treated with botulinum toxin type A. DESIGN: We reviewed all patients treated for spastic equinus foot using botulinum toxin type A (Botox) in the triceps suralis during a 3 1/2-yr period and analyzed the results after the first injection. There were 117 patients (72 diplegic and 45 hemiplegic patients) and a total of 189 triceps suralis treated. Variables analyzed included age, total dose per session, total dose per kilogram for each session, total dose per triceps, triceps dose per kilogram, type of cerebral palsy, cognitive level, botulinum toxin dilution, and physiotherapy. Assessments of efficacy were done using a Global Assessment Scale rated independently by parents, therapists, and a neurologist; the Modified Ashworth Scale; and the Modified Physician Rating Koman scale. RESULTS: Improvement was observed in all scales (P < 0.001). The change of foot position during walking was the best parameter for measuring improvement. There was correlation between the grade of improvement and the dose per kilogram for each triceps suralis (P < 0.001). Patient age was inversely correlated with improvement (P = 0.043). Diplegic and hemiplegic patients improved similarly, but the hemiplegic patients required higher doses for each muscle (P < 0.001). The most effective dose for diplegic patients was 3-4 IU/kg for each triceps, compared with 4-6 IU/kg for hemiplegic patients. Different dilutions of Botox (100, 50, and 40 U/ml) resulted in similar outcomes. No better results were achieved when 2-3 sessions/wk of physiotherapy was added to a daily program of exercises at home to enhance foot dorsiflexion. CONCLUSIONS: The dose per kilogram of Botox injected into triceps suralis and the patient age influence the results. The most effective dose is different between diplegic and hemiplegic patients. The concentration of botulinum toxin type A does not play a significant role in the outcome.

[Botulinum toxin treatment in children]. / Mitä annettavaa botuliinilla on lapsille?

Botulinum toxin type A treatments in children were started nearly 20 years ago. The first and still most common indication is spastic equinus gait in cerebral palsy, but other indications have emerged, such as idiopathic toe-walking, peri- and post-operative pain, drooling and idiopathic congenital torticollis. The official indication for botulinum toxin treatment is spastic equinus gait in children over 2 years of age. Botulinum toxin is known as the most potent toxin. However, it has proved to be safe and well tolerated among paediatric patients. Adverse events are infrequent, mostly bruising and limited, temporary muscle weakness. With higher doses the risk for generalized adverse events increases.

Botulinum toxin type A injections for treatment of spastic equinus in cerebral palsy: a secondary analysis of factors predictive of favorable response.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate markers predicting favorable botulinum toxin injection outcomes in treating spastic equinus gait in children with cerebral palsy. DESIGN: Thirty-six children (21 boys and 15 girls, aged 1.5-9.6 yrs; 20 with unilateral and 16 with bilateral cerebral palsy levels I to IV with the Gross Motor Function Classification System) with 49 treated lower limbs were included. Passive range of movement, selective dorsiflexion, dynamic muscle length (modified Tardieu Scale), calf tone (modified Ashworth Scale), attainment of anticipated gait pattern (Goal Attainment Scale), and video gait analysis (Observational Gait Scale) were assessed before and 1, 2, and 4 mos after intervention. Participants were classified as poor or good responders, according to the Goal Attainment Scale response at 2 mos. RESULTS: Good response was noted in 23 (64%) children and 29 (59%) legs, whereas 13 (36%) children and 20 (41%) legs were defined as poor responders. In a multivariate regression analysis, the best predictors of good response per child were higher initial Observational Gait Scale total scores, one-level treatment, and normal cognition; and the best predictors per leg were good initial selective motor control in the ankle and capability of occasional flatfoot contact at pretreatment. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that children with less severe functional deficit, fair to good selective motor control in the ankle, and mild equinus gait respond best to focal botulinum toxin type A treatment, with an eye to flatfoot or heel strike contact. Likewise, children with higher cognitive level seem to derive functional benefit from the treatment.

[Foot deformity in children with spastic forms of cerebral palsy: the treatment with botulinum toxin type A (dysport)].

The objective is to study the effect of dysport injections on the clinical and electromyographic changes in 35 patients (mean age 5,3+/-2,0 years) with spastic forms of cerebral palsy (26 with spastic diplegia, 9 with hemiparetic form) with equinus and equinovarus deformity. Depending on the clinical situation, dysport was injected in a total dose of 20-30 u per 1 kg of the body mass. Gastrocnemius muscles were injected more frequently than soleus and posterior tibial muscles. The treatment resulted in the significant reduction of spasticity on the Ashworth scale, decrease of equinus deformity, positive changes in the parameters of stepping on flat foot, independent standing and walking, the beginning of support period from the heel. During the arbitrary contraction, the amplitude of bioelectrical activity of target muscles of low extremities reduced, though not to the extent of the motor activity loss; the reciprocity coefficient decreased from 0,69+/-0,32 to 0,47+/-0,28 in patients with spastic diplegia and from 0,45+/-0,34 to 0,34+/-0,25 in patients with hemiparetic form. The effect of dysport was higher in hemiparetic form compared to spastic diplegia. The best results for spastic diplegia were revealed in patients with isolated spasticity without severe disturbances of reciprocal relations in shin muscles and pathological synkinesia.

Does the treatment of spastic equinovarus deformity following stroke with botulinum toxin increase gait velocity? A systematic review and meta-analysis.

While botulinum toxin-A (BT-A) has been used to treat lower-limb focal spasticity successfully, its effect on characteristics of gait has not been well defined. The objective of this systematic review was to establish the treatment effect associated with the use of BT-A for equinovarus to improve gait velocity following stroke, using a meta-analytic technique. Relevant studies were identified through a literature search encompassing the years 1985 to November 2009. Studies were included if (i) the sample was composed of adult subjects recovering from either first or subsequent stroke, presenting with spastic equinovarus deformity of the ankle preventing full active dorsiflexion, and (ii) subjects who received BT-A were compared with subjects who had received a placebo, or (iii) in the absence of a placebo-controlled condition, subject had received BT-A and was assessed before and after treatment. A standardized mean difference (SMD) ± standard error and 95% confidence interval (CI) for gait velocity between the treatment and control group was calculated for each study, using Hedges's g, and the results pooled. Eight trials, five randomized controlled trials, and three single group intervention studies were included. Data representing 228 subjects were available for pooled analysis. Treatment with BT-A was associated with a small improvement in gait velocity (Hedge's g = 0.193 ± 0.081; 95% CI: 0.033 to 0.353, P < 0.018) representing an increase of 0.044 meters/s. The use of BT-A for lower-limb post-stroke equinovarus because of spasticity was associated with a small, but statistically significant increase in gait velocity.