Can We Extend the Indications for Multilevel Surgery to Non-Ambulatory Children with Neuromuscular Diseases? A Safety and Efficacy Study

Abstract

A retrospective study that aims to analyze the safety and efficacy of single-event multilevel surgery (SEMLS) involving bifocal femoral osteotomy (BFO) performed in nine non-ambulatory children with neuromuscular diseases (NMD), with a median age of 12.86 years, to resolve both hip subluxation and ipsilateral knee flexion contracture that impaired standing, and to evaluate patient and caregiver satisfaction. Results: Median surgical time was 4 h 15 min (2 h 35 min–5 h 50 min). Hip flexion deformity improved by a median of 30° (15–35), while median improvement in knee flexion deformity was 30° (20–50). Only two patients could use a standing frame prior to surgery, although with increasing difficulty, while all children could use it following SEMLS. Mean follow-up was 27.47 months (24.33–46.9). Significant blood loss requiring transfusion was the only complication recorded (8/9). All caregivers reported slight, moderate, or significant improvement in all domains of the questionnaire, and all would undergo the procedure again and recommend it to others, as nearly all (8/9) were very satisfied. Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that SEMLS including BFOs in non-ambulatory children with NMD can correct hip, knee, and foot deformities and simultaneously realign lower limbs to restore functional standing and wheelchair transfer. The functional results, safety, and degree of satisfaction achieved justify offering this strategy to families.