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Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy
How Well It Works
Some children have less muscle tightness (spasticity) and are able to move their legs more easily after SDR, although their legs may feel weaker and somewhat numb. Sometimes spasticity completely goes away.
This surgery may decrease the chances of leg deformities in growing children. When muscles tighten around growing bones, the bones may not develop normally.
SDR cuts the nerves that cause spasticity and helps prevent the muscle from tightening again. When SDR is done before orthopedic surgery, it may increase the success of that surgery.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: September 20, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Susan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics
Reference Louis Pellegrino, MD - Developmental Pediatrics |
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