Genu flectum in cerebral palsy, elongation of the flexors of the knee joint and our modification
Acta Chir Orthop Traumatol Cech, 60 (4):
225--231 (1993)Abstract
The authors evaluate the results of prolongation of the flexors of the knee joint in 175 patients with a flexed position of the knee joint associated with the spastic form of cerebral palsy. They draw attention to the interrelationship of the position of the lower extremities in the area of the sole, knee and hip joint and emphasize the necessity of correct assessment of primary contractures. They emphasize also the evaluation of correct concurrent function of flexors and extensors of the knee and their balanced functioning. The authors prefer a single surgical operation in combined affections of the lower extremities to the system of so-called minor steps. They emphasize the importance of postoperative rehabilitation and prosthetic support. In the authors' opinion surgery of the knee joint in manifestations of cerebral palsy on the lower extremities is the most controversial area associated with the highest percentage of failures and complications. Contrary to data in the literature, they refute the necessity of capsulotomy of the knee joint and recommend their own modification how to treat severe forms of genu flectum spasticum.