The Consensus Statement on Hip Surveillance for Children with Cerebral Palsy: Australian Standards of Care

A fully automated measurement of migration percentage on ultrasound images in children with cerebral palsy

Migration percentage (MP) is the gold standard to assess the severity of hip displacement in children with cerebral palsy, which is measured on anteroposterior hip radiographs. Recently, the ultrasound (US) method has been developed as a safe alternative imaging modality to image and monitor children's hips. However, measuring MP on US images (MPUS) is time-consuming, challenging, and user-dependent. This study aimed to develop machine learning algorithms to automatically measure MPUS and validate the algorithms with MPXray. A combination of signal filtering, convolution neural networks (CNNs), and UNets was applied to segment the regions of interest (ROI), detect edges or feature points, and select the desired US frames. A total of 62 hips including both coronal and transverse scans per hip were acquired, out of which 36 with applying augmentation method were utilized for training, 8 for validation, and 18 for testing. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC2,1) and the mean absolute difference (MAD) between the automated MPUS versus manual MPXray were 0.86 and 6.5% ± 5.5%, respectively. To report the MPUS, it took an average of 104 s/hip. This preliminary result demonstrated that MPUS was able to extract automatically within 2 min with a clinical acceptance accuracy (10%).

Health-related quality of life after Dega pelvic osteotomy and varus derotation osteotomy due to spastic hip disease in children with cerebral palsy

Purpose

Our study aimed to present health-related quality of life (HRQL) after combined bone reconstruction in nonambulatory patients with cerebral palsy (CP) after at least a 2-year follow-up and to assess its impact on HRQL using the Caregiver Priorities and Child Health Index of Life with Disabilities questionnaire (CPCHILD) as the primary outcome measure.

Methods

In this prospective study, we analyzed 31 nonambulatory patients with spastic or mixed CP (GMFCS levels IV-V) who underwent hip reconstructive surgery between 2015 and 2021. The surgical procedures included one-sided varus derotation osteotomy of the femur with Dega transiliac osteotomy and, on the opposite side, varus derotation osteotomy (VDRO) of the femur with shortening and, as needed, Dega pelvic osteotomy.

Results

The study demonstrated significant improvement in the hip joint motion range, as assessed by the Thomas test, in hip abduction and rotational movements of the hip, as well as reduction of spasticity. The procedures also resulted in significant radiographic improvement of the femoral head coverage. The assessment of symptoms and problems associated with the hip revealed a positive influence of the surgery on pain, contractures, toileting/perineal hygiene, dressing, seating, transferring, and position changes. The mean improvement at a follow-up visit was significant in all domains of the CPCHILD, except for communication and social interaction.

Conclusion

Hip reconstruction with VDRO and Dega pelvic osteotomy can enhance the HRQL of children with CP. These surgical interventions can help to achieve the correct hip position and to reduce pain, which positively affects the patient QL, although proactive treatment results in less invasive procedures.

Level of Evidence

IV case series.

Hip surveillance in cerebral palsy: Review of clinical practice in a tertiary children's hospital using electronic health record linkage

BACKGROUND

Children with cerebral palsy (CP) can develop neuromuscular hip dysplasia (NHD) and radiographic surveillance is recommended, guided by gross motor function classification system (GMFCS) level. This study evaluated the clinical practice of hip surveillance for NHD in a children's hospital and risk factors for abnormal first and subsequent X-rays.

METHOD

Health data were extracted for 159 participants with CP, 98 male, 52 GMFCS level IV or V (birth years 2008-2018) and linked to electronic radiology datasets.

RESULTS

The median age at diagnosis of CP was 18 months (1-96 months). Thirty-eight participants had X-rays prior to diagnosis and 10 (6%) had no X-ray. Seventy-nine of 111 children classified as GMFCS levels II to V (71%) met both 2008 and 2020 Australian Hip Surveillance Guidelines (AHSG) having the first hip X-ray by 24 months of age. Sixteen participants (11%) had abnormal first hip X-ray (subluxation or migration percentage >30% in 14; MP 90%-100% or dislocation in 2). Univariate analyses showed NHD (MP > 30%) or dislocation at first X-ray was associated with GMFCS IV or V (OR = 6.98 (2.12-22.94), P = 0.001); >4 months between diagnosis and first hip X-ray (OR = 5.60 (1.52-20.59), P < 0.0009) and more common in NZ Māori children than non-Māori children (OR = 3.71 (1.25-11.01), P = 0.012).

CONCLUSION

Surveillance for NHD did not follow guidelines in almost a third of children, with delays in screening associated with greater risk of NHD at first X-ray. Inequities found for Indigenous NZ Māori children with CP require further investigation and stakeholder consultation.

Health care resource use in preschool children with cerebral palsy

AIM

To estimate the burden of disease and evaluate which factors affect health care resource use (HCRU) in young children with cerebral palsy (CP).

METHOD

Data were collected as part of a prospective, longitudinal cohort study of children with CP born in Queensland, Australia between 2006 and 2009. HCRU questionnaires were administered at six time points. Data on resource use, socio-demographics, and disease severity were collected. Costs were sourced from Medicare, the Australian National Hospital Cost Data Collection, and market prices. A generalized linear model was used to identify factors influencing CP-related costs.

RESULTS

A total of 794 questionnaires were completed by 222 participants (mean = 3.6 per participant). Physiotherapy (94%, n = 208) was the most widely accessed allied health care therapy; almost half of the participants (45%; 354 of 794) reported one or more hospital admissions. From the health care funder perspective, a child with CP costs on average A$24 950 per annum (A$12 475 per 6 months). Higher costs were associated with increased motor impairment (Gross Motor Function Classification System, p < 0.001) and increased comorbidities (p = 0.012).

INTERPRETATION

HCRU in preschool children with CP can be analysed according to disease severity. Both increased motor impairments and increased comorbidities were associated with higher health care costs.

WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS

Children with a higher number of comorbidities had higher health care costs, and more specifically, higher hospitalization costs. No significant change in costs was found over time as children aged from 18 months to 5 years.

Long-term outcomes of reconstructive treatment for painful dislocations in patients with cerebral palsy

Purpose

This report presents the long-term results of the hip joint reconstruction in patients with spastic hip disease through open reduction, proximal femur varus derotation osteotomy, and Dega transiliac osteotomy.

Methods

We analyzed retrospectively patients diagnosed with a spastic form of bilateral cerebral palsy with painful hip subluxation or dislocation. All patients underwent the same surgical procedure. The minimum follow-up time was 15 years. The study group comprised 15 patients (22 hips), classified with the Gross Motor Function Classification System as levels IV and V. The hip joint range of motion and anteroposterior X-ray examination at the final follow-up visit were compared with pre-operative data. The pain level was evaluated using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and the femoral head shape was assessed using the Rutz classification. The patients' caregivers answered questions regarding pain during sitting, personal hygiene activities, and at rest. The caregivers' satisfaction with the treatment was also assessed with the Caregiver Priorities and Child Health Index of Life with Disabilities questionnaire.

Results

We observed a significant reduction of the hip joint pain and improvement in both radiological hip stability parameters and range of motion at the final follow-up visit. Based on the Rutz classification, one hip remained type B, while the other joints became type A. Reduced pain was reported in all three positions, with the most pronounced improvement during sitting and personal hygiene activities. Interestingly, patients with unilateral hip reconstruction were more prone to pain after reconstruction than those operated bilaterally.

Conclusion

Primary reconstruction of the painful hip joint neurogenic dislocation results in a stable joint reduction, pain decrease, and improved quality of life in patients with cerebral palsy.

Level of evidence

IV case series.

From Hip Screening to Hip Surveillance: Transforming Care for Patients With Cerebral Palsy: An Analysis of a Single Institution

INTRODUCTION

Surveillance programs aimed at monitoring hip displacement in patients with cerebral palsy have been demonstrated to decrease the incidence of hip dislocations and properly time surgical intervention, ultimately improving patient outcomes. The objective of this study was to determine whether the implementation of a hip screening to surveillance program at a tertiary academic teaching hospital in 2017 increased the frequency of radiographic evaluations and changed the timing of surgical intervention.

METHODS

A total of 592 patients with cerebral palsy were identified, and 468 of these patients had initial radiograph date data available. In this analysis, 246 patients with initial radiograph dates after 2012 were included. The study population was divided into two groups based on the initial radiograph date, 2012 to 2016 versus 2017 to 2022. One hundred sixty patients (65%) were in the 2012 to 2016 group, and 86 (35%) were in the 2017 to 2022 group. Statistical analysis was conducted using various techniques, such as two-sample Student t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, chi square/Fisher exact test, and multivariable linear regression analysis.

RESULTS

The average number of radiographs per year in the 2017 to 2022 group was 0.11 (95% CI: 0.02, 0.20, P = 0.017) higher than the 2012 to 2016 group. After adjusting for confounders using multivariable linear regression analysis, this difference was even larger (difference 0.16, 95% CI: 0.06, 0.25, P = 0.001). The surgical intervention rate was significantly lower in the 2017 to 2022 group compared with the 2012 to 2016 group (12.9% versus 40.6%, P < 0.001).

DISCUSSION

The results of this study suggest that the implementation of a hip screening to surveillance program results in more frequent radiographic evaluations and possibly a reduced need for surgical intervention from 2017 to 2022. In the 2012 to 2016 group, more surgical interventions were performed likely because of the lack of any hip surveillance or screening program in place.

Acquired Hip Dysplasia in Children with Congenital Zika Virus Infection in the First Four Years of Life

Acquired hip dysplasia has been described in children with cerebral palsy (CP); periodic surveillance is recommended in this population to prevent hip displacement and dislocation. Children with congenital zika syndrome (CZS) may present a spectrum of neurological impairments with changes in tonus, posture, and movement similar to children with CP. However, the relationship between CZS and hip dysplasia has not been characterized. In this prospective cohort study, we aimed to describe the occurrence of hip dysplasia in patients with CZS. Sixty-four children with CZS from 6 to 48 months of age were included and followed at a tertiary referral center in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with periodic radiologic and clinical hip assessments. Twenty-six (41%) patients were diagnosed with hip dysplasia during follow-up; mean age at diagnosis was 23 months. According to the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS), 58 (91%) patients had severe impairment (GMFCS IV and V) at the first evaluation. All patients with progression to hip dysplasia had microcephaly and were classified as GMFCS IV or V. Pain and functional limitation were reported by 22 (84%) caregivers of children with hip dysplasia. All patients were referred to specialized orthopedic care; eight (31%) underwent surgical treatment during follow-up. Our findings highlight the importance of implementing a hip surveillance program and improving access to orthopedic treatment for children with CZS in order to decrease the chances of dysplasia-related complications and improve quality of life.

Unilateral versus bilateral reconstructive hip surgery in children with cerebral palsy: A survey of pediatric orthopedic surgery practice and decision-making

PURPOSE

This study explored whether surgeons favor unilateral or bilateral reconstructive hip surgery in children with cerebral palsy who have unilateral hip displacement.

METHODS

An invitation to participate in an anonymous, online survey was sent to 44 pediatric orthopedic surgeons. The case of an 8 year old at Gross Motor Function Classification System level IV with migration percentages of 76% and 22% was described. Surgeons selected their surgical treatment of choice and provided their rationale. Respondents were also asked to list and rank radiographic parameters used for decision-making and multidisciplinary team members involved in decision-making.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight orthopedic surgeons from nine countries with a mean 21.3 years (range, 5-40 years) of experience completed the survey. A "bilateral VDROs with a right pelvic osteotomy (PO) was selected by 68% (19/28) of respondents; risk of contralateral subluxation (9/19; 47%) and maintaining symmetry (7/19; 37%) were the most common rationales for bilateral surgery. The remaining 32% (9/28) chose a 'right VDRO with a right PO'" with most of these (8/9; 89%) stating the left hip was sufficiently covered. Of 31 radiographic parameters identified, migration percentage, acetabular angle/index, Shenton line, neck shaft angle, and presence of open/closed triradiate growth plates were the most common. Physical therapists (68%) and physiatrists (43%) were most likely to be involved in pre-operative surgical consultation.

CONCLUSION

There is a lack of agreement on management of the contralateral hip in children with unilateral hip displacement. Further studies comparing patient important outcomes following unilateral and bilateral surgery are required.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

V.

Cerebral palsy diagnosis and the impact on hip surveillance enrollment

AIM

To investigate the diagnosis at enrollment in the Child Health British Columbia Hip Surveillance Program for Children with Cerebral Palsy (CP) and review the etiologies of children enrolled without a CP diagnosis.

METHOD

Data from 959 children (543 males, 416 females; mean [SD] age at enrollment 6 years 8 months [4 years 2 months]) enrolled in the program between September 2015 and December 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. Enrollment diagnosis, Gross Motor Function Classification System level, migration percentage, and age at enrollment were included. Chart reviews were completed to confirm diagnoses for all children. Etiologies were compared to a list of conditions that are included and excluded from CP registries.

RESULTS

Diagnosis at enrollment was CP for 612 (64%), possible CP for 120 (13%), and 'other' for 220 (23%). No diagnosis was provided for seven (<1%). CP was confirmed for 700 (73%), including 106 (11.1%) enrolled as 'possible CP' or 'other'; 56 (5.8%) did not have CP due to progressive conditions. Migration percentage was similar across all groups at enrollment.

INTERPRETATION

One in four children were enrolled in hip surveillance without a diagnosis of CP or possible CP. Encouraging participation in hip surveillance when children meet the clinical criteria for CP but do not have a confirmed CP diagnosis can improve access to care.

Long-Term Evolution of the Hip and Proximal Femur after Hip Reconstruction in Non-Ambulatory Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Retrospective Radiographic Review

BACKGROUND

Hip displacement in children with cerebral palsy (CP) has a higher prevalence in non-ambulatory children. Progression can lead to pain, pelvic obliquity and difficulty with sitting. This can be addressed with hip reconstruction. Our study aims to report the long-term radiological outcomes after hip reconstruction, in particular the evolution of femoral head deformity.

METHODS

A total of 58 hips of non-ambulatory children with CP were evaluated retrospectively using pre-operative, early (median 120 days) and late post-operative (median 8.6 years) anteroposterior standardised radiographs. All the hips were treated with femoral shortening varus derotation osteotomy (VDRO), pelvic osteotomy and an open reduction, if indicated. The radiographical indices measured included the migration percentage (MP), sharp angle, acetabular index, centre-edge angle, neck shaft angle, head shaft angle, pelvic obliquity, femoral head sphericity, femoral head deformity (FHD) and growth plate orientation.

RESULTS

Improvements in hip congruency and morphology were evident after reconstructive hip surgery. These were maintained at the late post-operative time point. Median MP improved from 56% (IQR 46-85%) to 0% (IQR 0-15%) at early follow-up. This increased to 12% (IQR 0-20%) at late follow-up. Pre-operatively, FHDs of 14 hips (24%) were classified as grade A (spherical femoral head). This increased to 22 hips (38%) at early follow-up and increased further to 44 hips (76%) at late follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study shows that hip reconstruction reduces hip displacement in the long term, indicated by decreased post-operative MP maintained at long-term follow-up. Although non-ambulatory children lack weight-bearing forces promoting bone remodelling, improved femoral head morphology after surgery alters the forces between the acetabulum and the femoral head. Mild femoral head deformity (grades A and B) remained stable and even improved after surgery, postulated to be due to severe osteoporosis allowing remodelling.

Development of a standards-based phenotype model for gross motor function to support learning health systems in pediatric rehabilitation

INTRODUCTION

Research and continuous quality improvement in pediatric rehabilitation settings require standardized data and a systematic approach to use these data.

METHODS

We systematically examined pediatric data concepts from a pediatric learning network to determine capacity for capturing gross motor function (GMF) for children with Cerebral Palsy (CP) as a demonstration for enabling infrastructure for research and quality improvement activities of an LHS. We used an iterative approach to construct phenotype models of GMF from standardized data element concepts based on case definitions from the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS). Data concepts were selected using a theory and expert-informed process and resulted in the construction of four phenotype models of GMF: an overall model and three classes corresponding to deviations in GMF for CP populations.

RESULTS

Sixty five data element concepts were identified for the overall GMF phenotype model. The 65 data elements correspond to 20 variables and logic statements that instantiate membership into one of three clinically meaningful classes of GMF. Data element concepts and variables are organized into five domains relevant to modeling GMF: Neurologic Function, Mobility Performance, Activity Performance, Motor Performance, and Device Use.

CONCLUSION

Our experience provides an approach for organizations to leverage existing data for care improvement and research in other conditions. This is the first consensus-based and theory-driven specification of data elements and logic to support identification and labeling of GMF in patients for measuring improvements in care or the impact of new treatments. More research is needed to validate this phenotype model and the extent that these data differentiate between classes of GMF to support various LHS activities.

Evolution of head-shaft angle and neck-shaft angle in childhood

The current retrospective study investigates the natural evolution of head-shaft angle (HSA) and neck-shaft angle (NSA) in childhood. It is not known if a high HSA in early childhood leads to a high HSA in adulthood. This study aims to characterize the evolution of HSA and compares it with the more commonly known NSA in healthy children. We measured radiographs of 84 different healthy hips of children between 3 and 14.5 years old who underwent at least 2 radiographs of the pelvis, corresponding to 286 measurements. We used a linear mixed model to determine the covariance between random intercept and slope while allowing each individual hip to change over time. The covariance for HSA between random intercept and random slope was -4.262 (p < 0.001), corresponding to a high negative correlation of -0.717, for NSA -2.754 (p = 0.031) or a high negative correlation of -0.779. HSA and NSA were strongly correlated, a value of 0.736 (p < 0.001) was measured. The high negative correlation for random intercept and random slope means that the higher the initial value (intercept), the steeper the decline (slope). Therefore HSA decreases faster in hips with high HSA at an early age. Hips with high HSA in early childhood do not necessarily lead to hips with high HSA in adulthood. Our results may aid in future clinical decision making in patients with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) with high HSA in particular.

The Femoral Head-Shaft Angle Is Not a Predictor of Hip Displacement in Children Under 5 Years With Cerebral Palsy: A Population-based Study of Children at GMFCS Levels III-V

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the femoral head-shaft angle (HSA) is a predictor of hip displacement in children with cerebral palsy (CP).

METHODS

The patients were recruited from a population-based hip surveillance program. Inclusion criteria were age under 5 years, bilateral CP, Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels III-V, and migration percentage (MP) of both hips <40% at the primary radiograph. With these criteria, 101 children (61 boys) were included. GMFCS was level III in 26 patients, level IV in 23, and level V in 52. An anteroposterior radiograph of the pelvis was taken at diagnosis and at the last follow-up. Only the worst hip of each patient (the hip with the largest MP) was used for the analyses.

RESULTS

The mean age at the primary radiograph was 2.4 years (range, 0.8 to 4.9 y). The mean primary HSA was 171.0 degrees (range, 152 to 190 degrees). The mean follow-up time was 4.3 years (range, 0.9 to 11.8 y). The mean MP at the primary radiograph was 17.5% (range, 0% to 39%) and at the last follow-up 41.9% (range, 0% to 100%). At that point, MP was <40% in 54 hips and ≥40% in 47 hips. There was no significant difference in primary HSA between patients with final MP<40% and those with final MP≥40% (170.8 and 171.3 degrees, respectively; P=0.761). At the last follow-up, the mean HSA was significantly larger in hips with final MP≥40% than in hips with final MP<40% (171.1 vs. 167.4 degrees; P=0.029).

CONCLUSIONS

There was a markedly increased valgus position of the proximal femur in nonambulatory children with CP. However, the primary HSA in children below 5 years of age was not a predictor of later hip displacement, defined as MP≥40%.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Measurement of HSA is not necessary in routine hip surveillance in children below 5 years.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I-investigating a diagnostic test.

Hip Surveillance for Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Survey of Orthopaedic Surgeons in India

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to assess Indian orthopaedic surgeons' current practices and beliefs regarding hip surveillance for children with cerebral palsy (CP), to determine potential support for developing hip surveillance guidelines, and to identify knowledge gaps and key obstacles to guideline implementation in India.

METHODS

An anonymous, cross-sectional online survey was sent to approximately 350 Paediatric Orthopaedic Society of India (POSI) members who were queried on their practices and beliefs about hip surveillance for children with CP, as well as perceived challenges and requirements for the successful implementation of hip surveillance guidelines in the Indian context.

RESULTS

Out of 107 responses obtained from POSI members, almost all (96.2%) agreed that hip displacement requires standardized monitoring, using surveillance and surgery to prevent hip dislocation. Approximately half (51.5%) of respondents reported using existing hip surveillance guidelines, with most (41.2%) using the Australian guidelines. Almost all (97%) surgeons indicated that hip surveillance guidelines in India are needed, with 100% expressing interest in following guidelines specific to India. Respondents most frequently indicated late referrals to orthopaedics (81.2%), loss of patients to follow-up (78.2%), and lack of resources (43.6%) as challenges to successful hip surveillance in India. Perceived requirements for implementation included developing Indian-specific guidelines (83.2%) as well as educating surgeons (56.4%), physiotherapists/pediatricians (90.1%), and families (82.2%).

CONCLUSION

Orthopaedic surgeons practicing in India understand the importance of preventing hip dislocations in children with CP through hip surveillance and timely surgical intervention. The results demonstrated strong support for the development of hip surveillance guidelines designed specifically for the Indian healthcare system.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s43465-021-00432-3.

Systematic Review of Clinical Guidelines Related to Care of Individuals With Cerebral Palsy as Part of the World Health Organization Efforts to Develop a Global Package of Interventions for Rehabilitation

OBJECTIVE

The World Health Organization's (WHO) Rehabilitation 2030 initiative is working to develop a set of evidence-based interventions selected from clinical practice guidelines for Universal Health Coverage. As an initial step, the WHO Rehabilitation Programme and Cochrane Rehabilitation convened global content experts to conduct systematic reviews of clinical practice guidelines for 20 chronic health conditions, including cerebral palsy.

DATA SOURCES

Six scientific databases (Pubmed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, PEDro, CINAHL), Google Scholar, guideline databases, and professional society websites were searched.

STUDY SELECTION

A search strategy was implemented to identify clinical practice guidelines for cerebral palsy across the lifespan published within 10 years in English. Standardized spreadsheets were provided for process documentation, data entry, and tabulation of the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE II) tool. Each step was completed by 2 or more group members, with disagreements resolved by discussion. Initially, 13 guidelines were identified. Five did not meet the AGREE II established threshold or criteria for inclusion. Further review by the WHO eliminated 3 more, resulting in 5 remaining guidelines.

DATA EXTRACTION

All 339 recommendations from the 5 final guidelines, with type (assessment, intervention, or service), strength, and quality of evidence, were extracted, and an International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health Functioning (ICF) category was assigned to each.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Most guidelines addressed mobility functions, with comorbid conditions and lifespan considerations also included. However, most were at the level of body functions. No guideline focused specifically on physical or occupational therapies to improve activity and participation, despite their prevalence in rehabilitation.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the great need for high quality guidelines, this review demonstrated the limited number and range of interventions and lack of explicit use of the ICF during development of guidelines identified here. A lack of guidelines, however, does not necessarily indicate a lack of evidence. Further evidence review and development based on identified gaps and stakeholder priorities are needed.

Physical Therapists Are Key to Hip Surveillance for Children with Cerebral Palsy: Evaluating the Effectiveness of Knowledge Translation to Support Program Implementation

AIMS

Physical and occupational therapists play a key role in the implementation of hip surveillance for children with cerebral palsy (CP) in British Columbia, Canada. We aimed to develop and assess a knowledge translation strategy to support the implementation of a provincial hip surveillance program.

METHODS

Pediatric therapists were invited to participate in an anonymous survey assessing hip surveillance knowledge and learning needs. Based on these results, educational materials were developed. Two years later, one year following the launch of the hip surveillance program, the survey was repeated to assess learning, knowledge use, and barriers to enrollment.

RESULTS

The initial survey was completed by 102 therapists; 74 therapists completed the second survey. Multifaceted educational strategies, including web-based learning, in-person education, email notifications, and print materials that targeted knowledge gaps were developed. Upon re-evaluation, knowledge increased on all questions. At follow-up, 45 therapists had enrolled a child, indicating knowledge use. Barriers to enrollment included lack of a CP diagnosis, parents or physicians not agreeing to enrollment, time requirements, and lack of space to complete the clinical exam.

CONCLUSIONS

Targeted knowledge translation strategies were successful in meeting the educational requirements of a large group of therapists in a vast geographic area.

Developing a province-wide hip surveillance program for children with cerebral palsy: from evidence to consensus to program implementation: a mini-review

Hip displacement is a common orthopedic problem in children with cerebral palsy (CP) that can result in significant morbidity. Hip surveillance has been shown to reduce the incidence of hip dislocations in children with CP and to reduce the need for salvage hip surgeries. Guidelines for hip surveillance have been developed and can be adapted to meet local needs. Implementation of surveillance guidelines for a population of children is complex and highly dependent upon the region, province/state, or country's system of care for children with CP. Recognizing that implementation of the evidence on hip surveillance was necessary in British Columbia, a Canadian province spanning 1 million square kilometers, a comprehensive, coordinated approach to hip surveillance was developed collaboratively by provincial stakeholders. Surveillance guidelines and a desired implementation plan were established based on the best available research evidence, current international practice, and service delivery in British Columbia. Staged implementation preceded full provincial roll out. Implementation was supported by detailed communication, knowledge translation, and evaluation plans. This province-wide hip surveillance program is the first of its kind in North America.

More than an X-ray: Experiences and perspectives of parents of children with cerebral palsy when engaging in hip surveillance

AIM

We explored the experiences of parents of children with cerebral palsy (CP) when engaging in hip surveillance for their child and aimed to identify the barriers and facilitators they encounter.

METHODS

We conducted a pragmatic qualitative study through five focus groups conducted with 23 parents and primary care givers of young people with cerebral palsy. A semi-structured topic guide was used to facilitate discussion. Recordings were transcribed verbatim and transcripts analysed using content analysis.

RESULTS

Six major categories emerged: (i) hip surveillance is a shared responsibility; (ii) knowledge is empowering; (iii) hip surveillance should be proactive rather than reactive; (iv) consistency and support from health professionals is valuable; (v) good communication is crucial; and (vi) challenges associated with having an X-ray may not be appreciated. Participants made recommendations related to: service model enhancements, information provision and improving both communication and the experience of having an X-ray.

CONCLUSION

Despite having a good understanding of the need and importance of hip surveillance for their child, several barriers to parent engagement exist. Findings will inform the implementation of a family-centred model for hip surveillance and may be relevant to those undertaking or planning the implementation of hip surveillance in other areas.

How pain management for children with cerebral palsy in South African schools complies with up-to-date knowledge

Background

Pain in children with cerebral palsy (CP) has its sources in musculoskeletal problems that can influence learning in a school setting. Best pain management is essential for these children, but school staff may not keep up to date with the latest developments and interventions. Therefore, staff's perceptions of beneficial strategies may not comply with contemporary scientific knowledge about effective evidence-based interventions.

Objectives

This study investigated how pain management intervention for children with CP in South African schools complied with international scientific knowledge about evidence-based interventions. The intention was to provide support for an update of knowledge on both individual level (i.e. professionals) and system level (i.e. decision makers).

Method

Five focus groups were conducted with staff members at five schools for children with special educational needs in South Africa. Manifest and latent content analyses of professional statements identified interventions reported as beneficial and related them to higher and lower levels of intervention evidence as reported at the time of data collection.

Results

Most treatment strategies concerned motor functioning that fell within the framework of physiotherapists and occupational therapists. Access to orthopaedic expertise was limited, waiting times were long and medication for spasticity treatment was not offered.

Conclusion

A discrepancy between published evidence and clinical practice for pain management in children with CP in South African school settings was noted. Suggestions for improved early intervention to identify children's hips at risk through surveillance programmes; and orthopaedic management are proposed to prevent deformities and unnecessary suffering in South African children with CP.

Hip dysplasia among children with spastic cerebral palsy in rural Bangladesh

Background

Hip dysplasia is common among children with cerebral palsy (CP), particularly in spastic CP. It can result in pain, reduced function and quality of life. However, the burden of hip dysplasia among children with CP in llow-and middle-income countries (LMICs) like Bangladesh is unknown. We aimed to define the burden of hip dysplasia among children with spastic CP in Bangladesh.

Methods

This study includes a subset of the Bangladesh CP Register (BCPR) study cohort who were registered between January and March 2015. The BCPR is a population-based surveillance of children with CP (aged < 18 years) operating in a northern sub-district (Shahjadpur; child population ~ 226,114) of Bangladesh. Community-based key informant’s method (KIM) survey conducted to identify children with CP in the surveillance area. A diagnosis of CP was made based on clinical history and examination by the study physicians and physiotherapist. Study participants had an antero-posterior (AP) X-ray of their pelvis. The degree of subluxation was assessed by calculating the migration percentage (MP).

Results

During the study period, 196 children with CP were registered, 144 had spastic CP. 40 children with spastic CP (80 hips) had pelvic X-Rays (mean age 9.4 years, range 4.0–18.0 years) and 32.5% were female. Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) showed 37.5% (n = 15) with GMFCS level I-II and 62.5% (n = 25) with GMFCS level III-V. Twenty percent (n = 8) of the children had hip subluxation (MP: 33–80%). Osteopenic changes were found in 42.5% (n = 17) children.

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge this is one of the first studies exploring hip dysplasia among children with spastic CP in Bangladesh. Our findings reflect that hip dysplasia is common among children with spastic CP. Introduction of hip surveillance programmes is imperative for prevention of secondary complications, reduced function and poor quality of life among these children.

[Effectiveness of the use of standing devices in the prevention of hip dislocation in children and adolescents with spastic cerebral palsy, GMFCS III, IV and V. A systematic review]

The standing devices are used as a preventive therapy for hip dislocation in patients with cerebral palsy. This review seeks to assess the effectiveness of standing devices in the prevention of hip dislocation of patients under 18 years old with a diagnosis of spastic cerebral palsy, GMFCS III-V. A systematic search was conducted in 10 biomedical databases, selecting randomized, quasi-experimental clinical trials and cohort studies. The use of standing devices with physical therapy, orthosis and/or soft tissue surgeries was compared. The percentage of migration of the femoral head was considered as the main result. The risk of bias was assessed using the Rob 2.0 and Robins I guidelines. As a result of the analysis of 6 primary studies, it is obtained that the use of standing devices maintained the percentage of migration of the femoral head within normal limits (MP:13-23%, p<.01), increased vertebral trabecular volumetric bone mineral density (8.16mg/cm³, p=.01), bone mineral content (p=.010) and hamstring muscle length (phase B1 p<.01 and B2 p=.03). However, the risk of bias in these studies was categorized as of some concern to moderate. In conclusion, it is stated that there is limited evidence of the effectiveness of the use of standing devices in the prevention of hip dislocation in the study population, due to the methodological heterogeneity and risk of bias of the included studies. A greater number of studies with a high level of evidence are required in order to generate a recommendation for its use. Registration in PROSPERO: CRD42018087641.

Genetic or Other Causation Should Not Change the Clinical Diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy

High throughput sequencing is discovering many likely causative genetic variants in individuals with cerebral palsy. Some investigators have suggested that this changes the clinical diagnosis of cerebral palsy and that these individuals should be removed from this diagnostic category. Cerebral palsy is a neurodevelopmental disorder diagnosed on clinical signs, not etiology. All nonprogressive permanent disorders of movement and posture attributed to disturbances that occurred in the developing fetal and infant brain can be described as "cerebral palsy." This definition of cerebral palsy should not be changed, whatever the cause. Reasons include stability, utility and accuracy of cerebral palsy registers, direct access to services, financial and social support specifically offered to families with cerebral palsy, and community understanding of the clinical diagnosis. Other neurodevelopmental disorders, for example, epilepsy, have not changed the diagnosis when genomic causes are found. The clinical diagnosis of cerebral palsy should remain, should prompt appropriate genetic studies and can subsequently be subclassified by etiology.

Postural asymmetry in non-ambulant adults with cerebral palsy: a scoping review

PURPOSE

Non-ambulant adults with cerebral palsy are vulnerable to development of postural asymmetry and associated complications. The primary aim of this scoping review was to identify postural deformities in non-ambulant adults with cerebral palsy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Comprehensive searches were undertaken in EMBASE, CINAHL, AMED, Cochrane, Psych INFO, and Joanna Briggs (1986-Jan 2017), supplemented by hand searching. Two reviewers independently extracted data using a customised tool focusing on study design, participant characteristics, postural descriptors, measurement tools, and interventions.

RESULTS

From 2546 potential records, 17 studies were included. Variability in populations, reporting methodology, and measurement systems was evident. Data suggest more than 30% of this population have hip migration percentage in excess of 30%, more than 75% experience "scoliosis", and more than 40% demonstrate pelvic obliquity. Estimates ranged from 14% to 100% hip and 32% to 87% knee contracture incidence. Conservative interventions were infrequently and poorly described.

CONCLUSION

Many non-ambulant adults with cerebral palsy experience postural asymmetry associated with windswept hips, scoliosis, pelvic obliquity, and limb contracture. Options for non-radiographic monitoring of postural asymmetry should be identified, and conservative interventions formally were evaluated in this population. Implications for rehabilitation The common postural asymmetries of windswept hips, scoliosis, pelvic obliquity, and limb contracture require standardised clinical measurement. Radiography is most commonly used to monitor postural asymmetry in this population, but standardised positioning is not applied and may not be feasible indicating a need for alternate methods and rigorous documentation. The Posture and Postural Ability Scale may be considered for use in the management of body shape in adults with CP.

PREDICT-CP: study protocol of implementation of comprehensive surveillance to predict outcomes for school-aged children with cerebral palsy

OBJECTIVES

Cerebral palsy (CP) remains the world's most common childhood physical disability with total annual costs of care and lost well-being of $A3.87b. The PREDICT-CP (NHMRC 1077257 Partnership Project: Comprehensive surveillance to PREDICT outcomes for school age children with CP) study will investigate the influence of brain structure, body composition, dietary intake, oropharyngeal function, habitual physical activity, musculoskeletal development (hip status, bone health) and muscle performance on motor attainment, cognition, executive function, communication, participation, quality of life and related health resource use costs. The PREDICT-CP cohort provides further follow-up at 8-12 years of two overlapping preschool-age cohorts examined from 1.5 to 5 years (NHMRC 465128 motor and brain development; NHMRC 569605 growth, nutrition and physical activity).

METHODS AND ANALYSES

This population-based cohort study undertakes state-wide surveillance of 245 children with CP born in Queensland (birth years 2006-2009). Children will be classified for Gross Motor Function Classification System; Manual Ability Classification System, Communication Function Classification System and Eating and Drinking Ability Classification System. Outcomes include gross motor function, musculoskeletal development (hip displacement, spasticity, muscle contracture), upper limb function, communication difficulties, oropharyngeal dysphagia, dietary intake and body composition, participation, parent-reported and child-reported quality of life and medical and allied health resource use. These detailed phenotypical data will be compared with brain macrostructure and microstructure using 3 Tesla MRI (3T MRI). Relationships between brain lesion severity and outcomes will be analysed using multilevel mixed-effects models.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The PREDICT-CP protocol is a prospectively registered and ethically accepted study protocol. The study combines data at 1.5-5 then 8-12 years of direct clinical assessment to enable prediction of outcomes and healthcare needs essential for tailoring interventions (eg, rehabilitation, orthopaedic surgery and nutritional supplements) and the projected healthcare utilisation.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ACTRN: 12616001488493.

Hip health at skeletal maturity: a population-based study of young adults with cerebral palsy

AIM

We studied 'hip health' in a population-based cohort of adolescents and young adults with cerebral palsy to investigate associations between hip morphology, pain, and gross motor function.

METHOD

Ninety-eight young adults (65 males, 33 females) from the birth cohort were identified as having developed hip displacement (migration percentage >30) and were reviewed at a mean age of 18 years 10 months (range 15-24y). Hip morphology was classified using the Melbourne Cerebral Palsy Hip Classification Scale (MCPHCS). Severity and frequency of pain were recorded using Likert scales. Gross motor function was classified by the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS).

RESULTS

Hip pain was reported in 72% of participants. Associations were found between pain scores and both hip morphology and GMFCS. Median pain severity score for MCPHCS grades 1 to 4 was 2 (interquartile range [IQR] 1.0-3.0) compared to 7 (IQR 6.0-8.0) for grades 5 and 6 (severe subluxation or dislocation). Hip surveillance and access to surgery were associated with improved hip morphology and less pain.

INTERPRETATION

Poor hip morphology at skeletal maturity was associated with high levels of pain. Limited hip surveillance and access to surgery, rather than GMFCS, was associated with poor hip morphology. The majority of young adults who had access to hip surveillance, and preventive and reconstructive surgery, had satisfactory hip morphology at skeletal maturity and less pain.

Musculoskeletal Evaluation of Children with Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral Palsy (CP) is the most common chronic disability of childhood. The problems involved are complex; not only do these children have problems of mobility, but a plethora of associated problems [1]. A recent definition of CP includes secondary musculoskeletal problems [2]. The inclusion of this in the definition recognises the significance of musculoskeletal problems and the impact these problems have on the lives of children with CP and their families. Orthopedic management of the child with CP aims to reduce the impact of these musculoskeletal problems to help the child with CP to reach his maximum potential [3]. To accurately assess children and prepare management plans, a combination of medical history, physical examination, functional assessment, medical imaging, observational and instrumented gait analysis, and assessment of patient and family goals must be interpreted [4]. A detailed annual orthopedic assessment for all children with CP is recommended [5]. For an ambulant child, more frequent assessments are required during periods of rapid growth, observed deterioration in physical examination measures, and after interventions, including gait correction surgery. For a non-ambulant child, more frequent assessments are indicated according to hip surveillance guidelines [6, 7], during periods of observed deterioration, and following interventions such as hip or spine surgery. A systematic and practiced routine is conducive to efficiency and accuracy [5]. This paper discusses the Physical Examination Protocol used by the Hugh Williamson Gait Analysis Laboratory, in Melbourne, Australia.

Three-dimensional evaluation of skeletal deformities of the pelvis and lower limbs in ambulant children with cerebral palsy

Skeletal abnormalities, affecting posture and walking pattern, increase with motor impairment in children with cerebral palsy (CP). However, it is not known whether these skeletal malalignments occur in children with slight motor impairment. Our aim was to evaluate skeletal malalignment at the level of the pelvis and lower limbs in ambulant children with CP, with slight motor impairment, using a low dose biplanar X-ray technique. Twenty-seven children with spastic CP (mean age: 10.9±4years, 7 Hemiplegia, 20 Diplegia, GMFCS levels I:17, II:10), with no previous treatments at the hips and knees, underwent EOS(®) biplanar X-rays. A control group consisting of 22 typically developing children was also included. Three-dimensional reconstructions of the pelvis and lower limbs were performed in order to calculate 11 radiological parameters related to the pelvis, acetabulum and lower limbs. Pelvic incidence and sacral slope were significantly increased in children with CP compared to TD children (48°±7° vs. 43°±8°, 42°±7° vs. 38°±5°, respectively, p=0.003). Acetabular parameters did not significantly differ between the two groups. Femoral anteversion and neck shaft angle were significantly increased in children with CP (25°±12° vs. 14°±7°, p<0.001; 134°±5° vs. 131°±5°, p=0.005 respectively). No difference was found for tibial torsion. This study showed that even slightly impaired children with CP have an anteverted and abducted femur and present positional and morphological changes of the pelvis in the sagittal plane. The orientation of the acetabulum in 3D seems to not be affected when children with CP present slight motor impairment.

Investigating the impact of pain, age, Gross Motor Function Classification System, and sex on health-related quality of life in children with cerebral palsy

AIM

To explore whether health-related quality of life (HRQOL) can be predicted by pain, age, Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level, and sex in children with cerebral palsy (CP) and whether different pain etiologies have varying effects on HRQOL.

METHODS

Children with CP aged 3 to 19 years and their caregivers were consecutively recruited. Caregivers reported their child's pain (Health Utilities Index 3 [HUI3] pain subset) and HRQOL (DISABKIDS questionnaires). Physicians identified pain etiologies. A multiple linear regression model determined whether pain, GMFCS level, sex, and age predicted HRQOL. An ANOVA evaluated the effects of pain etiologies on HRQOL.

RESULTS

Three hundred and forty-four participants were approached and 87% (n=300) participated. Sufficient data were available on 248 (72% of total sample). Sixty-six participants (27%) formed the pain group with HUI3 pain scores of at least 3. The presence of pain and increasing age significantly negatively predicted HRQOL (p<0.001, R(2) =0.141), while GMFCS and sex did not. Musculoskeletal deformity (24%) and hypertonia (18%) were the most frequent pain causes. HRQOL statistically differed depending on the pain etiology (p=0.028) with musculoskeletal deformity showing the lowest mean HRQOL.

INTERPRETATION

The presence of pain and increasing age negatively predict HRQOL in CP. musculoskeletal deformity has the greatest negative impact on HRQOL.

Cerebral palsy

Cerebral palsy is the most common cause of childhood-onset, lifelong physical disability in most countries, affecting about 1 in 500 neonates with an estimated prevalence of 17 million people worldwide. Cerebral palsy is not a disease entity in the traditional sense but a clinical description of children who share features of a non-progressive brain injury or lesion acquired during the antenatal, perinatal or early postnatal period. The clinical manifestations of cerebral palsy vary greatly in the type of movement disorder, the degree of functional ability and limitation and the affected parts of the body. There is currently no cure, but progress is being made in both the prevention and the amelioration of the brain injury. For example, administration of magnesium sulfate during premature labour and cooling of high-risk infants can reduce the rate and severity of cerebral palsy. Although the disorder affects individuals throughout their lifetime, most cerebral palsy research efforts and management strategies currently focus on the needs of children. Clinical management of children with cerebral palsy is directed towards maximizing function and participation in activities and minimizing the effects of the factors that can make the condition worse, such as epilepsy, feeding challenges, hip dislocation and scoliosis. These management strategies include enhancing neurological function during early development; managing medical co-morbidities, weakness and hypertonia; using rehabilitation technologies to enhance motor function; and preventing secondary musculoskeletal problems. Meeting the needs of people with cerebral palsy in resource-poor settings is particularly challenging.

The radiological assessment of pelvic obliquity in cerebral palsy and the impact on hip development

Pelvic obliquity is a common finding in adolescents with cerebral palsy, however, there is little agreement on its measurement or relationship with hip development at different gross motor function classification system (GMFCS) levels. The purpose of this investigation was to study these issues in a large, population-based cohort of adolescents with cerebral palsy at transition into adult services. The cohort were a subset of a three year birth cohort (n = 98, 65M: 33F, with a mean age of 18.8 years (14.8 to 23.63) at their last radiological review) with the common features of a migration percentage greater than 30% and a history of adductor release surgery. Different radiological methods of measuring pelvic obliquity were investigated in 40 patients and the angle between the acetabular tear drops (ITDL) and the horizontal reference frame of the radiograph was found to be reliable, with good face validity. This was selected for further study in all 98 patients. The median pelvic obliquity was 4° (interquartile range 2° to 8°). There was a strong correlation between hip morphology and the presence of pelvic obliquity (effect of ITDL on Sharpe's angle in the higher hip; rho 7.20 (5% confidence interval 5.59 to 8.81, p < 0.001). This was particularly true in non-ambulant adolescents (GMFCS IV and V) with severe pelvic obliquity, but was also easily detectable and clinically relevant in ambulant adolescents with mild pelvic obliquity. The identification of pelvic obliquity and its management deserves closer scrutiny in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy.

The head-shaft angle of the hip in early childhood: a comparison of reference values for children with cerebral palsy and normally developing hips

The recognition of hips at risk of displacement in children with cerebral palsy (CP) is a difficult problem for the orthopaedic surgeon. The Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) and head-shaft angle (HSA) are prognostic factors for hip displacement. However, reference values for HSA are lacking. This study describes and compares the development of HSA in normal hips and children with CP. We selected 33 children from a retrospective cohort with unilateral developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) (five boys, 28 girls) and 50 children (35 boys, 15 girls) with CP with GMFCS levels II to V. HSA of normal developing hips was measured at the contralateral hip of unilateral DDH children (33 hips) and HSA of CP children was measured in both hips (100 hips). Measurements were taken from the radiographs of the children at age two, four and seven years. The normal hip HSA decreased by 2° per year (p < 0.001). In children with CP with GMFCS levels II and III HSA decreased by 0.6° (p = 0.046) and 0.9° (p = 0.049) per year, respectively. The HSA did not alter significantly in GMFCS levels IV and V. Between the ages of two and eight years, the HSA decreases in normal hips and CP children with GMFCS level, II to III but does not change in GMFCS levels IV to V. As HSA has a prognostic value for hip displacement, these reference values may help the orthopaedic surgeon to predict future hip displacement in children with CP.

Australian hip surveillance guidelines for children with cerebral palsy: 5-year review

AIM

To ensure hip surveillance guidelines reflect current evidence of factors influencing hip displacement in children with cerebral palsy (CP).

METHOD

A three-step review process was undertaken: (1) systematic literature review, (2) analysis of hip surveillance databases, and (3) national survey of orthopaedic surgeons managing hip displacement in children with CP.

RESULTS

Fifteen articles were included in the systematic review. Quantitative analysis was not possible. Qualitative review indicated hip surveillance programmes have decreased the incidence of hip dislocation in populations with CP. The Gross Motor Function Classification System was confirmed as the best indicator of risk for displacement, and evidence was found of hip displacement occurring at younger ages and in young adulthood. Femoral geometry, pelvic obliquity, and scoliosis were linked to progression of hip displacement. A combined data pool of 3366 children from Australian hip surveillance databases supported the effectiveness of the 2008 Consensus Statement to identify hip displacement early. The survey of orthopaedic surgeons supported findings of the systematic review and database analyses.

INTERPRETATION

This review rationalized changes to the revised and renamed Australian Hip Surveillance Guidelines for Children with Cerebral Palsy 2014, informing frequency of radiographic examination in lower risk groups and continuation of surveillance into adulthood for adolescents with identified risk factors.

The prognostic value of the head-shaft angle on hip displacement in children with cerebral palsy

BACKGROUND

Hip displacement is the second most common deformity in cerebral palsy (CP). The risk for hip displacement is related to the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS). Recently, the head-shaft angle (HSA) has been identified as a predictor for hip displacement and the aim of this study is to assess the predictive value of the HSA for hip displacement in CP.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort, we performed radiological measurements in 50 children on both hips. In children with GMFCS level II (30 hips), III (30 hips), IV (20 hips) and V (20 hips), we measured the HSA and migration percentage (MP) in three age intervals: age two years (T1), age four years (T2) and age seven years (T3).

RESULTS

At T1, the HSA was larger (more valgus) in hips that will displace than in hips that will not displace (174° vs. 166°; p = 0.001) and was also larger in higher GMFCS levels (IV-V vs. II-III) (172° vs. 165°; p < 0.001). At T1, GMFCS [odds ratio (OR) 14.7; p = 0.001] and HSA (OR 1.102; p = 0.043) were predictors for hip displacement at T3, but at T2, MP (OR 1.071; p = 0.010) was the only predictor for hip displacement at T3.

CONCLUSIONS

The HSA at two years is larger in hips that will displace and larger in children with higher GMFCS levels (IV-V). At age two years, GMFCS and HSA are valuable predictors for hip displacement, but at the age of four years, only MP should be used in the prediction of hip displacement.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic study, level II.

Systematic Review of Cerebral Palsy Registries/Surveillance Groups: Relationships between Registry Characteristics and Knowledge Dissemination

The aims of this study were to provide a comprehensive summary of the body of research disseminated by Cerebral Palsy (CP) registries and surveillance programs from January 2009 through May 2014 in order to describe the influence their results have on our overall understanding of CP. Secondly, registries/surveillance programs and the work they produced were evaluated and grouped using standardized definitions and classification systems.

METHOD

A systematic review search in PubMed, CINAH and Embase for original articles published from 1 January 2009 to 20 May 2014 originating from or supported by population based CP registries and surveillance programs or population based national registries including CP were included. Articles were grouped by 2009 World CP Registry Congress aim, registry/surveillance program classification, geographical region, and the International Classification of Function, Disability and Health (ICF) domain. Registry variables were assessed using the ICF-CY classification.

RESULTS

Literature searches returned 177 articles meeting inclusion criteria. The majority (69%) of registry/surveillance program productivity was related to contributions as a Resource for CP Research. Prevention (23%) and Surveillance (22%) articles were other areas of achievement, but fewer articles were published in the areas of Planning (17%) and Raising the Profile of CP (2%). There was a range of registry/surveillance program classifications contributing to this productivity, and representation from multiple areas of the globe, although most of the articles originated in Europe, Australia, and Canada. The domains of the ICF that were primarily covered included body structures and function at the early stages of life. Encouragingly, a variety of CP registry/surveillance program initiatives included additional ICF domains of participation and environmental and personal factors.

INTERPRETATION

CP registries and surveillance programs, including novel non-traditional ones, have significantly contributed to the understanding of how CP affects individuals, families and society. Moving forward, the global CP registry/surveillance program community should continue to strive for uniformity in CP definitions, variables collected and consistency with international initiatives like the ICF so that databases can be consolidated for research use. Adaptation to new technologies can improve access, reduce cost and facilitate information transfer between registrants, researchers and registries/surveillance programs. Finally, increased efforts in documenting variables of individuals with CP into adulthood should be made in order to expand our understanding of CP across the lifespan.

Improving allied health professionals' research implementation behaviours for children with cerebral palsy: protocol for a before-after study

BACKGROUND

Cerebral palsy is a permanent disorder of posture and movement caused by disturbances in the developing brain. It affects approximately 1 in every 500 children in developed countries and is the most common form of childhood physical disability. People with cerebral palsy may also have problems with speech, vision and hearing, intellectual difficulties and epilepsy. Health and therapy services are frequently required throughout life, and this care should be effective and evidence informed; however, accessing and adopting new research findings into day-to-day clinical practice is often delayed.

METHODS/DESIGN

This 3-year study employs a before and after design to evaluate if a multi-strategy intervention can improve research implementation among allied health professionals (AHPs) who work with children and young people with cerebral palsy and to establish if children's health outcomes can be improved by routine clinical assessment. The intervention comprises (1) knowledge brokering with AHPs, (2) access to an online research evidence library, (3) provision of negotiated evidence-based training and education, and (4) routine use of evidence-based measures with children and young people aged 3-18 years with cerebral palsy. The study is being implemented in four organisations, with a fifth organisation acting as a comparison site, across four Australian states. Effectiveness will be assessed using questionnaires completed by AHPs at baseline, 6, 12 and 24 months, and by monitoring the extent of use of evidence-based measures. Children's health outcomes will be evaluated by longitudinal analyses.

DISCUSSION

Government, policy makers and service providers all seek evidence-based information to support decision-making about how to distribute scarce resources, and families are seeking information to support intervention choices. This study will provide knowledge about what constitutes an efficient, evidence-informed service and which allied health interventions are implemented for children with cerebral palsy.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Trial is not a controlled healthcare intervention and is not registered.

Current proceedings of cerebral palsy

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a complicated disease with varying causes and outcomes. It has created significant burden to both affected families and societies, not to mention the quality of life of the patients themselves. There is no cure for the disease; therefore, development of effective therapeutic strategies is in great demand. Recent advances in regenerative medicine suggest that the transplantation of stem cells, including embryonic stem cells, neural stem cells, bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells, umbilical cord blood cells, and human embryonic germ cells, focusing on the root of the problem, may provide the possibility of developing a complete cure in treating CP. However, safety is the first factor to be considered because some stem cells may cause tumorigenesis. Additionally, more preclinical and clinical studies are needed to determine the type of cells, route of delivery, cell dose, timing of transplantation, and combinatorial strategies to achieve an optimal outcome.

Reliability of radiologic measures of hip displacement in a cohort of preschool-aged children with cerebral palsy

BACKGROUND

Radiologic hip surveillance is recommended for children with cerebral palsy (CP) at risk of hip displacement. Young children with abnormal proximal femoral geometry (Hilgenreiner epiphyseal angle, HEA) may be more likely to develop hip displacement, less likely to respond to nonsurgical intervention, and may benefit from earlier surgical referral. The reliability of radiographic measures of migration percentage (MP) in the immature pelvis of young children has been reported in smaller retrospective studies; HEA has not been examined in this population. This prospective study describes the reliability of MP and HEA in very young children with CP.

METHODS

Participants were entered from tertiary referral center CP clinics into a prospectively recruited population-based cohort for hip surveillance with pelvic radiography using standardized patient position, at 18, 24, 30, 36, and 48 months. All Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels were included. Two independent raters assessed radiographs for HEA and MP. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was computed as a measure of interrater and intrarater reliability. The correlation coefficient between HEA and femoral position was computed.

RESULTS

Ninety-eight children less than 25 months (spasticity=83, 85%; GMFCS IV-V=38, 39%), and 114 children 25 to 48 months (spasticity=96, 85%; GMFCS IV-V=37, 32%) were included from 133 unique participants (spasticity=111, 84%; GMFCS IV-V=42, 32%). Of these 79 children were studied in both age groups. Overall interrater and intrarater reliability of MP was high [ICC=0.93; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.91-0.95]; SEM was 3.9% (single) and 5.5% (sequential). Perfect concordance for classification of marked hip displacement (MP>30%) occurred in 217 cases (95.2%); nonweighted κ=0.80; 95% CI, 0.68-0.91. For HEA, overall reliability was high (ICC=0.89; 95% CI, 0.85-0.93); SEM=4.8% (single) and 6.7% (sequential). Correlation between changes in HEA and femoral abduction was poor (coefficient=-0.27, P=0.244).

CONCLUSIONS

MP and HEA can be reliably applied to very young children with CP, with high reliability for both measures. Measured HEA values appear to be independent of patient position, and may reflect genuine changes in proximal femoral geometry. A longitudinal study should be performed to determine the relationship between HEA and later hip outcomes.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I/II--testing and development of diagnostic tests.

Rationale for using botulinum toxin A as an adjunct to upper limb rehabilitation in children with cerebral palsy

Cerebral palsy describes a group of disorders of movement and posture that result from disturbances in the developing brain. Although the brain lesion is nonprogressive, the secondary physical symptoms change with time and growth. If left untreated, symptoms may result in the development of physical impairment and impede independent performance of daily tasks. Intramuscular injection of botulinum neurotoxin A is a relatively safe and effective adjunct to upper limb therapy. Botulinum neurotoxin A primarily aims to reduce muscle overactivity, thereby reducing the development of increased muscle stiffness that can lead to permanent changes. With a specific focus on the physiological action of botulinum neurotoxin A, this article describes the secondary symptoms of cerebral palsy and their different contributions. To highlight research directions and future implications for clinical practice, this article also documents the recent scientific evidence for upper limb botulinum neurotoxin A and proposes a preventive clinical model that aims to mitigate the effects of increasing upper limb impairment.

Stability of serial range-of-motion measurements of the lower extremities in children with cerebral palsy: can we do better?

BACKGROUND

Serial joint range-of-motion (ROM) measurements are an important component of assessments for children with cerebral palsy. Most research has studied ROM stability using group data. Examination of longitudinal intraindividual measures may provide more clinically relevant information about measurement variability.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to examine the stability of intraindividual longitudinal measurements of hip abduction (ABD), popliteal angle (POP), and ankle dorsiflexion (ADF) ROM measures of children with cerebral palsy.

DESIGN

Secondary data analyses were performed.

METHODS

The stability patterns of individual serial measurements of ABD, POP, and ADF from 85 children (mean age=3.8 years, SD=1.4) collected at baseline (T1), 3 months (T2), 6 months (T3), and 9 months (T4) were examined using T1 as the anchor and bandwidths of ±15 degrees (ABD and POP) and ±10 degrees (ADF) as acceptable variability. Frequencies of stability categories (0°-5°, 5.1°-10°, 10.1°-15°, and >15°) were calculated. Patterns of stability across the 4 time periods also were examined. Group means (T1-T4) were compared using repeated-measures analysis of variance.

RESULTS

No significant differences in group means were found except for ABD. Stability patterns revealed that 43.3% to 69.5% of joint measurements were stable with T1 measurements across all 3 subsequent measurements. Stability category frequencies showed that many measurements (ABD=17%, POP=29.9%, and ADF=37.1%) went outside the variability bandwidths even though 39% or more of joint measurements had a change of 5 degrees or less over time.

LIMITATIONS

Measurement error and true measurement variability cannot be disentangled. The results cannot be extrapolated to other joint ROMs.

CONCLUSIONS

Individual ROM serial measurement exhibits more variability than group data. Range-of-motion data must be interpreted with caution clinically and efforts made to ensure standardization of data collection methods.

The cerebral palsy transition clinic: administrative chore, clinical responsibility, or opportunity for audit and clinical research?

PURPOSE

The majority of children with orthopaedic conditions in childhood survive to adult life, and there is a need for many of them to transition to adult services. This includes children with disorders such as club foot or developmental dislocation of the hip as well as those with complex syndromic conditions, bone dysplasias or neuromuscular disorders such as cerebral palsy and myelomeningocele. In many tertiary paediatric centres, transition has become a formal process in which clinicians document and communicate the status of patients who have been under their care to ensure a smooth transfer to adult services. The purpose of this report is to support the need for clear communication when children with cerebral palsy transition to adult services and to suggest that this transition represents a significant opportunity for audit and clinical research.

METHODS

Some of the factors to be considered in developing a minimum data sheet for the transfer or transition of children with cerebral palsy to adult services are described.

CONCLUSION

Using the model of adolescents with cerebral palsy transitioning to adult services, orthopaedic surgeons can be encouraged to develop similar methodology and documentation for many other conditions for the purposes of communication, facilitation of transition, audit and clinical research.

Cerebral palsy

The syndrome of cerebral palsy encompasses a large group of childhood movement and posture disorders. Severity, patterns of motor involvement, and associated impairments such as those of communication, intellectual ability, and epilepsy vary widely. Overall prevalence has remained stable in the past 40 years at 2-3·5 cases per 1000 livebirths, despite changes in antenatal and perinatal care. The few studies available from developing countries suggest prevalence of comparable magnitude. Cerebral palsy is a lifelong disorder; approaches to intervention, whether at an individual or environmental level, should recognise that quality of life and social participation throughout life are what individuals with cerebral palsy seek, not improved physical function for its own sake. In the past few years, the cerebral palsy community has learned that the evidence of benefit for the numerous drugs, surgery, and therapies used over previous decades is weak. Improved understanding of the role of multiple gestation in pathogenesis, of gene environment interaction, and how to influence brain plasticity could yield significant advances in treatment of the disorder. Reduction in the prevalence of post-neonatal cerebral palsy, especially in developing countries, should be possible through improved nutrition, infection control, and accident prevention.

Validity and reliability of radiological methods to assess proximal hip geometry in children with cerebral palsy: a systematic review

AIM

The aim of this systematic review was to assess the current validity and reliability of radiological methods used to measure proximal hip geometry in children with cerebral palsy.

METHOD

A search was conducted using relevant keywords and inclusion/exclusion criteria of the MEDLINE, CINALH Plus, Embase, Web of Science, Academic Search Premier, The Cochrane Library, and PsychINFO databases.

RESULTS

The migration percentage using X-rays showed excellent reliability and concurrent validity with three-dimensional (3D) measurements from computed tomography (CT) scans. The acetabular index, measured using X-rays had good reliability but moderate concurrent validity with 3D CT measurements; 3D CT scan indexes had greater reliability. The measurement of the neck shaft angle using X-rays showed excellent concurrent validity with measurements from 3D CT scans and excellent reliability. Regarding femoral anteversion, one study found an excellent correlation between two-dimensional CT and clinical assessment and excellent reliability. Two others showed less evidence for the use of CT ultrasounds.

INTERPRETATION

Most of the X-ray-based measurements showed good to excellent metrological properties. More metrological evidence is needed for the assessment of femoral anteversion. Magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound-based measurements have great potential although very little metrological evidence is available.

Australian Cerebral Palsy Child Study: protocol of a prospective population based study of motor and brain development of preschool aged children with cerebral palsy

BACKGROUND

Cerebral palsy (CP) results from a static brain lesion during pregnancy or early life and remains the most common cause of physical disability in children (1 in 500). While the brain lesion is static, the physical manifestations and medical issues may progress resulting in altered motor patterns. To date, there are no prospective longitudinal studies of CP that follow a birth cohort to track early gross and fine motor development and use Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to determine the anatomical pattern and likely timing of the brain lesion. Existing studies do not consider treatment costs and outcomes. This study aims to determine the pathway(s) to motor outcome from diagnosis at 18 months corrected age (c.a.) to outcome at 5 years in relation to the nature of the brain lesion (using structural MRI).

METHODS

This prospective cohort study aims to recruit a total of 240 children diagnosed with CP born in Victoria (birth years 2004 and 2005) and Queensland (birth years 2006-2009). Children can enter the study at any time between 18 months to 5 years of age and will be assessed at 18, 24, 30, 36, 48 and 60 months c.a. Outcomes include gross motor function (GMFM-66 & GMFM-88), Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS); musculoskeletal development (hip displacement, spasticity, muscle contracture), upper limb function (Manual Ability Classification System), communication difficulties using Communication and Symbolic Behaviour Scales-Developmental Profile (CSBS-DP), participation using the Paediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI), parent reported quality of life and classification of medical and allied health resource use and determination of the aetiology of CP using clinical evaluation combined with MRI. The relationship between the pathways to motor outcome and the nature of the brain lesion will be analysed using multiple methods including non-linear modelling, multilevel mixed-effects models and generalised estimating equations.

DISCUSSION

This protocol describes a large population-based study of early motor development and brain structure in a representative sample of preschool aged children with CP, using direct clinical assessment. The results of this study will be published in peer reviewed journals and presented at relevant international conferences.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Australia and New Zealand Clinical Trials Register (ACTRN1261200169820).

Reliability of retrospective assignment of gross motor function classification system scores

OBJECTIVES

To assess "alternate forms" reliability and inter-rater reliability of Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) scores.

METHODS

Fifty randomly selected children with cerebral palsy were divided into two groups: (1) GMFCS score assigned during gait assessment ("GMFCS previously assigned") and (2) no GMFCS score assigned. Using database information, two physiotherapists independently determined GMFCS scores for 25 children from the "previously assigned" group, and 25 from the "no score assigned" group. Therapists compared their recently assigned scores for the "previously assigned" group, discussing discrepancies until attaining agreement. This group's consensus scores were compared to GMFCS scores assigned at time of actual assessment to calculate "alternate forms" reliability.

RESULTS

Between-therapist agreements were kappa = 0.84 for "GMFCS previously assigned" group and 0.95 for "no GMFCS assigned" group. Kappa agreement between direct assessment and retrospectively assigned scores for the "GMFCS previously assigned" group was 0.79.

CONCLUSIONS

Retrospective GMFCS scores can be reliably assigned.

The impact of complementary and alternative medicine on hip development in children with cerebral palsy

AIM

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) approaches on long-term surgical requirements, and clinical and radiographic outcomes for children with cerebral palsy and hip displacement.

METHOD

Twenty-three children with cerebral palsy and early hip displacement who were offered preventive hip surgery and whose parents declined in favour of CAM approaches were followed (13 males, 10 females; mean age 13 y 9 mo [SD 3 y 1 mo]; mean length of follow-up 10 y 2 mo [SD 2 y 11 mo]; 17 with spastic quadriplegia, two with spastic triplegia, and four with spastic diplegia; three with gross motor function classified at Gross Motor Function Classification System [GMFCS] level II, four at level III, six at level IV, and 10 at level V). Principal outcome measures were progression of hip displacement (measured by migration percentage: the percentage of the femoral head sitting outside of the acetabulum), eventual need for reconstructive or salvage surgery, and long-term hip morphology (classified by the Melbourne Cerebral Palsy Hip Classification Scale). The results were compared with a previously reported cohort of 46 children who had surgery when recommended (31 males, 15 females; mean age 13 y 11 mo [SD 1 y 6 mo]; mean length of follow-up 10 y 10 mo; 10 with diplegia and 36 with quadriplegia; three at GMFCS level II, 11 at level III, 20 at level IV, and 12 at level V).

RESULTS

Outcomes for 23 children who had pursued CAM were analysed (mean length of follow-up 10 y 2 mo). Hip displacement progressed in one or both hips in all non-ambulant children (GMFCS level IV or V). Of the 20 children with documented progressive hip displacement, eight developed pain and deformity requiring salvage surgery. An additional 11 children with progressive hip displacement had late reconstructive surgery when symptoms first started. There was strong evidence of a relationship between GMFCS and both progressive hip displacement (χ(2) =17.78; p=0.001) and final Melbourne Cerebral Palsy Hip Classification Scale grade (odds ratio 12.5; p=0.012; 95% confidence interval 1.7-90.4). There was also evidence of those children who pursued CAM requiring more complex surgery than the group who had surgery when recommended (odds ratio 2.5; p=0.002; 95% confidence interval 1.4-4.5).

INTERPRETATION

CAM therapy did not appear to influence the progression of hip displacement in children with cerebral palsy. Most children required major reconstructive surgery or salvage surgery despite pursuing CAM.

Gait function and decline in adults with cerebral palsy: a systematic review

PURPOSE

The aim of this systematic review was to identify, appraise and synthesize the evidence describing gait decline in adults with cerebral palsy (CP).

METHOD

Comprehensive searches were conducted in MEDLINE (1970-), EMBASE (1980-), CINAHL (1982-) and AMED (1985-) databases to June 2012. Two reviewers independently completed data extraction and analysis using a modified version of the Downs and Black quality tool.

RESULTS

From the 485 papers identified, 16 met the inclusion criteria. Most studies used samples of convenience. The reported mean ages of the study groups varied from 22 to 42.6 years. Decline in gait function was measured variably with the period of decline undefined or from an unknown reference time during childhood. Results suggest that mobility decline occurs in 25% or more of adults with CP. Those at higher risk of gait decline are those with worse initial gait ability, bilateral rather than unilateral motor impairment, older age and higher levels of pain or fatigue.

CONCLUSION

Many ambulant adults with CP experience mobility decline earlier than their nondisabled peers. More information regarding the natural history of mobility change over the lifespan in adults with CP augmented with self-efficacy qualitative data is needed to direct health advice and appropriate interventions for this group.

IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION

The literature suggests 25% or more of ambulant adults with cerebral palsy experience gait decline. Higher risk of gait decline occurs in those who are older, less independent in gait, have bilateral motor impairment and higher levels of pain or fatigue. Use of standardized gait measurement tools augmented with self-efficacy measures will aid provision of health advice and interventions.