Study of Muscle Changes in Children and Teens with Cerebral Palsy or Acquired Brain Injury Compared to Typically Developed Peers During Orthopaedic Surgery

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying how muscles are affected in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy CP or acquired brain injury ABI, focusing on the muscle changes that cause weakness, stiffness, joint contractures, and difficulty walking. The study compares muscle and tendon samples from these participants to those from typically developed children undergoing surgery for other reasons. The goal is to understand the underlying mechanisms leading to muscle problems and contractures to guide future treatments that may protect muscle and joint health. During clinically needed orthopedic surgeries, muscle and tendon biopsies along with blood samples are collected from children with CP or ABI and from typically developed controls. These samples are analyzed for inflammatory markers, muscle growth signals, connective tissue growth, and muscle and tendon pathology. By comparing muscles used in walking to those used more voluntarily, and flexor muscles to extensors, researchers aim to uncover differences related to contractures and muscle function. Blood analysis includes measuring pro-inflammatory cytokines and a protective compound called humanin. Participants are involved during their planned surgeries when the necessary samples are taken without affecting clinical function. Clinical data on joint contractures and CP severity are recorded before surgery. The study measures muscle and tendon structure, muscle metabolism, and muscle fiber area over the years 2002 to 2027. This observational research helps deepen understanding of muscle changes in CP and ABI, with participant involvement mainly during surgery and clinical assessments before surgery.

How Are the Muscles Affected in Cerebral Palsy? A Study of Muscle Biopsies Taken During Orthopaedic Surgery.