Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR)
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One of many treatments available to improve the physical state of a child with cerebral palsy is Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy.
SDR surgery is a hot topic for the UK cerebral palsy community as the NHS appears to offer the treatment but problems with funding, study results and suitability may mask what is actually happening. Many families are resigned in having to raise thousands of pounds in order for their child to have SDR surgery and or to support pre- and post-op physiotherapy. We think children who fit the criteria should be allowed to have the surgery on the NHS. The world renowned Dr Park at the St Louis Children's Hospital in the US is the leading authority on SDR surgery and has successful undertaken over 3000 procedures but should SDR be available this side of the pond? We think so. What is Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy? SDR as it is sometimes referred is a medical procedure aimed at improving the lives of children affected by spastic diplegia, although not all children are suitable and not all who undergo the treatment will find it beneficial there are many success stories. Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy is the surgical procedure where the lower back is exposed and nerves are severed. The result is that the symptoms of a child's spasticity (rigidity) are reduced The best outcomes are seen on children between the ages of 4 and 10. Neurological surgery should never be taken lightly but the risks should be measured against the outcome benefits. There are cases which fail to improve the symptoms but on the whole the improvements to a child's life is significant. Benefits of SDR
Is SDR suitable for my child? This is the key question however the first port of call should always be your own medical team who are best placed to advise on the way forward for you and your child. More about SDR Further information on Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy surgery in the UK. UK Hospitals where SDR is available:
In the USA private surgery is a available at the St Louis Children's Hospital The Portland Hospital for Women and Children are conducting SDR here in the UK. Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy Outcomes Although success can never be guaranteed - if your child is suitable for surgery the potential long term benefits certainly make it worth exploring the subject fully. 
Do you have experience of
Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy? If so can you recommend it? |
Please note that hospitals that conduct SDR surgery in the UK are subject to change.
SDR Surgery will help Kayla Hope Eales
Fundraising: http://www.gofundme.com/kaylas-dream
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