The Functional Mobility Scale: ability to detect change following single event multilevel surgery

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the ability of the Functional Mobility Scale (FMS) to detect change in children with cerebral palsy (CP) undergoing single event multilevel surgery (SEMLS). A retrospective study was conducted of gait laboratory records and video assessments for a consecutive sample of children with CP aged 4 to 18 years who were managed by multilevel surgery. FMS ratings and Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels were recorded preoperatively and at regular postoperative time points. The sample comprised 66 children (32 females, 34 males) with spastic diplegia, GMFCS Levels I (n=18), II (n=24), and III (n=24). The mean age at surgery was 10 years (SD 2y..