Article

Asymmetrical skull deformity is frequently seen in children with
cerebral palsy, and may contribute to postural abnormalities and deformities. The
aim of this cross-sectional- survey was to determine the frequency of
asymmetrical skull deformity and its correlation with clinical parameters.
METHODS: A 10-item checklist for asymmetrical skull deformity, postural
abnormalities, and deformities was developed, and its inter-rater reliability was
tested. A total of 110 participants aged 1-18 years (mean age 9.3 years (standard
deviation 4.7)) was assessed using the checklist. The frequency of asymmetrical
skull deformity was analysed and related to the Gross Motor Function
Classification System (GMFCS), postural abnormalities, and deformities. RESULTS:
The reliability of the checklist was satisfactory (kappa > 0.8). Asymmetrical
skull deformity was observed in 44 children, 24 showing right and 20 showing left
flat occipital deformity. Its frequency was significantly related to GMFCS and
with the patterns of asymmetrical posture and deformities (p < 0.05). Children
with right flat occipital asymmetrical skull deformity showed predominantly
rightward facial direction and right-side-dominant asymmetrical tonic neck
reflex, left convex scoliosis, right-side-elevated pelvic obliquity, and
left-sided hip dislocation. Those with left flat occipital asymmetrical skull
deformity demonstrated the reverse tendency. CONCLUSION: Asymmetrical skull
deformity is frequent in cerebral palsy and closely related to asymmetrical
posture and deformities. This information will be useful to manage these
problems.

Langue : ANGLAIS