Early rehabilitation improves neurofunctional outcome after surgery in children with spinal tumors

Neural Regeneration Research, 2014 · DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.125340 · Published: January 1, 2014

Simple Explanation

This study investigates how early rehabilitation affects the recovery of nerve and muscle function in children after spinal tumor surgery. It looks at patients who started rehabilitation soon after their surgery to see if it helped them regain their motor and sensory skills. The study aims to show the importance of early rehabilitation programs in improving the lives of these young patients. The research focuses on various aspects of recovery, including sensory function, motor function, and the ability to perform daily activities. By analyzing data from medical charts and radiographic records, the study determines whether early rehabilitation leads to significant improvements in these areas for children with spinal tumors. The findings suggest that early rehabilitation is indeed beneficial, leading to improved sensory and motor functions. The study highlights that starting rehabilitation soon after surgery can significantly enhance a child's ability to regain independence and improve their overall quality of life.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

70 pediatric patients (1–17 years old)

Evidence Level

Retrospective analysis

Key Findings

1
Early rehabilitation significantly improved sensory function, motor function, and activity of daily living in pediatric children after spinal tumor surgery.
2
The duration of hospitalization was positively correlated with the percentage change of WeeFIM and KPS scores, indicating that longer rehabilitation periods led to better functional outcomes.
3
Tumor setting and level localization, as well as patients’ clinical symptoms, did not significantly influence neurofunctional outcomes, suggesting that early rehabilitation is beneficial regardless of these factors.

Research Summary

This retrospective study evaluated the impact of early rehabilitation on neurofunctional outcomes in 70 pediatric patients who underwent spinal tumor surgery. The patients received rehabilitation treatment at 4 (range, 2–7) days after surgery for 10 (range, 7–23) days. The study demonstrated significant improvements in sensory function, motor function, and activities of daily living among children who received early rehabilitation. These improvements were assessed using the Modified McCormick Scale, Functional Independence Measure for Children, American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale, and Karnofsky Performance Status Scale. The results indicate that early rehabilitation programs are effective in enhancing functional independence and neurological recovery in children following spinal tumor surgery. The study suggests that rehabilitation should be initiated as soon as possible, irrespective of tumor characteristics or initial clinical symptoms.

Practical Implications

Clinical Practice

Early rehabilitation should be a standard component of post-operative care for children with spinal tumors to maximize neurofunctional recovery.

Rehabilitation Programs

Rehabilitation programs should be initiated as soon as possible after surgery, regardless of tumor setting, level of localization, or clinical symptoms.

Family Involvement

Families should be educated and involved in home exercise programs to support and extend the benefits of early rehabilitation.

Study Limitations

1
Retrospective study design
2
Lack of a control group
3
Limited number of studies that investigate rehabilitation outcomes in children with spinal tumors

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