Application of Botulinum Toxin in Treatment of Spasticity and Functional Improvements for Children Suffering from Cerebral Palsy

Application of Botulin toxin type A in children with cerebral palsy is represent targeted antispasm treatment for relaxation of spastic muscles. Goal: The goal of this study was to determine the significance of the application of Botulin toxin in the treatment of spasticity and functional progress of children suffering from cerebral palsy. Material and methods: At the Department of Developmental diagnosis, habilitation and rehabilitation of children in the Pediatric Clinic, Clinical Center of Sarajevo University study included 20 patients aged 4-18 years. Data were obtained by examining the patientʹs records. Selected patients are diagnosed with cerebral palsy and were treated with Botulin toxin. The study was retrospective, and data are presented in tables and charts using descriptive statistics. As a measurement scale, we used the "gross motor function measurement"-GMFM, based on which the children were scored by the " Gross Motor Function Classification System"-the GMFCS. Results: Of 20 children, 11 or 55% were boys and 9 or 45% of girls. The largest number of children in the sample had 9 ± 4.03 years (5 or 25%), with an average age of 9 years (range: 4-18 years). 80% of children suffering from cerebral palsy for the first time received botulin toxin at the age of 2-6 years, 40% of children had 2 applications of Botulin toxin, and for 45% of children the time interval between repeated applications was from 3-6 months. Measuring gross motor function before and after botulin toxin application registered significant functional improvement. Conclusion: Botulin toxin is beneficial in the treatment of spasticity in children suffering from cerebral palsy.