Predictors of outcome of distal rectus femoris transfer surgery in ambulatory children with cerebral palsy.

Abstract

The objective of this study was to identify the predictors of outcome of distal rectus femoris transfer in cerebral palsy. Preoperative and postoperative gait data for 81 patients were examined, focusing on knee flexion/extension range. Outcome was 'good' for 46 patients and 'poor' for 35. The poor outcome group had no improvement in knee range because of increased crouch postoperatively. Outcome was unrelated to quadriceps strength, crouch, velocity, or type of cerebral palsy. Gross Motor Function Classification System was predictive of outcome, with poor results in all level IV patients (P< or =0.008). In conclusion, Gross Motor Function Classification System IV patients may not benefit from distal rectus femoris transfer because of increased postoperative crouch.