Effects of botulinum toxin injections in the upper limbs of children with cerebral palsy: A systematic review of the literature

Background: Spasticity is a common motor disorder in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Upper limb CP impairment has a significant negative impact on daily activities. Botulinum toxin (BTX-A) injections are widely used to reduce spasticity, but their effectiveness is not well-defined. We performed a systematic review of literature to answer questions about the effectiveness of BTX-A injections in the upper limb in children with CP. Methods: A systematic review of literature was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies were randomized controlled trials with a high level of evidence on BTX-A upper limb injections in children. The outcomes analyzed included the study population, spasticity, quality of movement, activity limitations, quality of life, pain, appearance and side effects. Results: A total of 24 studies were included. The number of patients included was 1358 with a mean age between 3 and 11 years. Improvement after BTX-A injection compared to the control group was observed for spasticity ( n = 10/19 studies), bimanual activities (Assisting Hand Assessment) ( n = 3/7), activity limitations ( n = 6/11), pain ( n = 2/2) and appearance ( n = 2/2). No study found an improvement in quality of life. Side effects were described in 16 studies and were moderate in all cases. Conclusion: This review of literature showed that BTX-A injections can improve spasticity and particularly activity limitations when reasonable objectives are established. Level of evidence: IV, systematic review. (c) 2023 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.