Multi-level surgery for cerebral palsy

Firstly your child will have extensive gait analysis with a consultant. They will observe how the child walks over a period of time, and may recommend multiple level surgery to address specific issues.

The procedures happen in one combined trip to the operating theatre. Your child will have a general anaesthetic and will be asleep throughout. Depending on your child's conditions, they will then undergo multiple treatments on their legs. These range from open reduction and hip reconstruction for hip dysplasia, to correcting foot deformities. Surgery time depends on the quantity and complexity of procedures.

Your consultant will explain the procedure and answer any questions you have. In the week before surgery, it’s important that your child stays healthy. Let your consultant know if your child has recently had a cold or a sore throat, as surgery may need to be postponed to reduce the risk of complications.

Because general anaesthetic is used during the procedure, your child may need to fast for several hours before the operation. Your consultant will tell you how long they should avoid eating and drinking. Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects. Your consultant will explain these to you.

Having multi-level surgery means one single, prolonged recovery involving physiotherapy. Your child will spend the first three weeks after surgery recovering from the procedures. After six weeks, your child will start extensive physiotherapy.

Once X-rays show adequate healing, the child will learn to move and bear weight on their limbs with the help of crutches. They will be encouraged to exercise two to three times a week, to increase strength. Your child should be fully recovered from multi-level surgery after a year. Your consultant will monitor their progress throughout.