Marc Sindou
George Georgoulis
Patrick Mertens

2014

A Practical Guide for Treating Children and Adults

Spasticity is a common sequelar condition frequently encountered after a variety of pathologies that affect the upper motor neuron system. Spasticity can be useful by compensating for lost motor strength, but may also become harmful leading to further functional losses and irreducible contractures. When spasticity fails to be controlled by relaxant medications and physical therapy and special rehabilitation programs, functional neurosurgery can be a recourse. By aiming at diminishing the excess of tone and re-equilibrating the tonic balances, neurosurgical procedures, that often need to be supplemented with orthopedic operations, may help improve function and limit irreversible deformities.