Understanding brain changes in children with spastic diplegia after surgery

Cortical Plasticity in Spastic Diplegia After Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy

Not applicable Interventional The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston · NCT02535936

This study is trying to see how surgery affects brain connections in children with spastic diplegia.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment15 (estimated)
Ages3 Years to 18 Years
SexAll
SponsorThe University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston Academic / other
Locations1 site (Houston, Texas)
Trial IDNCT02535936 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to investigate the changes in brain connectivity in children diagnosed with spastic diplegia following Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy. Using advanced imaging techniques such as diffusion tractography imaging (DTI) and resting state functional connectivity MRI (rsfcMRI), researchers will analyze the structural and functional alterations in the corticopyramidal tract. The study will compare these changes to better understand the impact of the surgical intervention on brain function and connectivity in affected children.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are children diagnosed with spastic diplegia who have undergone Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy surgery.

Not a fit: Patients who have not undergone Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy surgery will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding of brain recovery processes in children with spastic diplegia, potentially enhancing rehabilitation strategies.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results in understanding brain plasticity and recovery in similar patient populations, indicating that this approach is supported by prior research.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Children diagnosis with Spastic Diplegia and having Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy surgery

Exclusion Criteria:

* No Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy surgery

Where this trial is running

Houston, Texas

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Spastic DiplegiaCerebral Palsy
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.