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Benefits after SDR, as reported in worldwide scientific research literature:

• Much less spasticity in the leg muscles
• Improved gross motor skills and mobility
• Improved way of walking and walking distance
• Less pain from stiff muscles
• Improved self-care activities
• Improved quality of life

Australian families have also told us other ways in which SDR has helped their child:

• Keeping up with friends in the playground
• Able to sit cross legged with friends in the classroom
• Improved mood eg. happier, more confident
• Able to get around more independently

Other long term benefits we have seen:

• Less need for Botulinum toxin-A injections
• Less number of orthopaedic procedures needed
• Less need for anti-spasticity oral medicines

Based on SDR surgeries in NSW, we found the most common problems in the early days were:

• Post op pain 100%. This is managed so that your child is as comfortable as possible.
• Constipation 86%
• Nausea and vomiting 82%
• Unusual sensitivity in the skin of the feet or legs 64%

We have a Registry which records results for children who have had SDR surgeries in Australia. Problems recorded during their hospital stay were:

• Delay in wound healing 10%
• Infection 5%
• Wound infection 2% and Pressure area 2%
• Other 6%

Of these problems, 3% needed a minor operation for treatment.

The doctors will give your child medicine to help with pain and stop infection.

According to scientific research literature worldwide:

• 33% had abnormal spinal curve/s. This is similar to the rest of the CP population, and relates to the child’s GMFCS level
• 50% had occasional mild back or leg pain
• 50% needed orthopaedic surgery.

Spasticity treatments:

• Continue with regular treatments that lessen spasticity ie. Botulinum toxin-A injections, medicines, casting.

SDR surgery:

• Hospital admission
• Intensive rehab after SDR

Spasticity treatments:

• Less spasticity for a short time
• Your child:
  • will not have the risks of surgery
  • will not need to miss school for a term
  • will not need to take part in intensive rehab for 1 to 2 years.
• Exercise and over-the counter medicines can be used to treat pain if needed

SDR surgery:

• Much less spasticity permanently
• Less need for regular Botulinum toxin-A injections and oral medicines
• It is likely to reduce muscle spasms and pain in the legs

Spasticity treatments:

• Side effects related to Botulinum toxin-A injections and medicines
• Increased muscle tightness making it difficult to do daily activities

SDR surgery:

• Side effects related to the SDR surgery and anaesthesia