Surgery for Spasticity
Spasticity is a condition characterized by stiffness and involuntary muscle contractions, commonly seen after stroke, spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy, or brain trauma. It occurs when nerve pathways that control muscle movement are damaged, leading to continuous muscle tightness, deformity, and restricted mobility.
For patients whose spasticity does not improve with medications, therapy, or injections, neurosurgical intervention offers significant relief and improved functionality. Dr. Rahul Gupta, Director of Neurosurgery at Fortis Noida, specializes in surgical management of spasticity, employing precise techniques that reduce abnormal muscle tone and restore freedom of movement.
His goal is not just to relax muscles but to enhance quality of life — enabling patients to sit, stand, walk, or use their limbs with greater ease and comfort.
Clinical Management
The surgical management of spasticity depends on its cause, severity, and location. After a detailed neurological assessment, imaging, and functional evaluation, Dr. Gupta selects one or a combination of the following approaches:
Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR): Involves selectively cutting overactive nerve roots in the spinal cord to reduce spasticity in the lower limbs.
Intrathecal Baclofen Pump (ITB): A small device implanted under the skin delivers continuous doses of muscle relaxant directly into the spinal fluid, providing sustained relief.
Neurotomy or Tendon Lengthening: In specific cases, overactive peripheral nerves or tendons may be modified to improve limb posture and function.
Postoperative care focuses on physiotherapy and rehabilitation to strengthen muscles and retrain movement patterns. Under Dr. Rahul Gupta’s guidance, spasticity surgery provides lasting results — reducing stiffness, easing pain, and helping patients regain control and independence in daily life.