Evaluating Electrical Stimulation of Dorsal Roots to Reduce Muscle Spasticity During Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy Surgery in Children With Cerebral Palsy

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating whether dorsal root electrical stimulation can reduce muscle spasticity in children with cerebral palsy CP who are undergoing selective dorsal rhizotomy SDR surgery. This study focuses on children aged 3 to 14 with CP who require SDR, aiming to understand if higher-frequency electrical stimulation can suppress abnormal muscle responses during surgery. During SDR surgery, spastic dorsal roots are typically identified by low-frequency electrical stimulation and measuring muscle responses. In this study, researchers will use devices called the DS8R Constant Current Stimulator and the Cadwell Guardian System to deliver higher-frequency electrical pulses 40-5000 Hz directly to the dorsal roots using hook electrodes. This stimulation is given during the surgery as an additional test to see if it reduces the abnormal muscle activity. Participants will be involved only during the surgery session where these tests are performed. The main measurement is the peak-to-peak amplitude of the dorsal root reflex recorded during surgery. The study will monitor this response to evaluate the effect of the higher-frequency stimulation. The trial is expected to continue until December 2029, with no additional follow-up visits described.

Dorsal Root Electrical Stimulation in Children With Cerebral Palsy