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    Spinal fusion in girls with Rett syndrome: postoperative recovery and family experiences

    Access Status
    Fulltext not available
    Authors
    Marr, C.
    Leonard, H.
    Torode, I.
    Downs, Jennepher
    Date
    2015
    Type
    Journal Article
    
    Metadata
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    Citation
    Marr, C. and Leonard, H. and Torode, I. and Downs, J. 2015. Spinal fusion in girls with Rett syndrome: postoperative recovery and family experiences. Child: Health, Care and Development. 41 (6): pp. 1000-1009.
    Source Title
    Child: Health, Care and Development
    DOI
    10.1111/cch.12243
    School
    School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science
    URI
    http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11937/19379
    Collection
    • Curtin Research Publications
    Abstract

    Background: Rett syndrome is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder mainly affecting females and scoliosis is a common co-morbidity. Spinal fusion may be recommended if the scoliosis is progressive. This qualitative study investigated recovery of girls with Rett syndrome during the first 12 post-operative months and explored family perspectives and coping around the time of surgery. Method: Parents registered with the population-based Australian Rett Syndrome Database were recruited to this study if their daughter had a confirmed pathogenic MECP2 mutation and spinal fusion between 2006 and 2012. Twenty-five interviews were conducted to determine their daughter's recovery and parental stresses and coping. Themes in the interview data were identified with content analysis, and the regaining of gross motor skills over the first 12 post-operative months was described with time-to-event (survival) analysis. Results: Pain and energy levels, appetite, mood and coinciding health issues influenced their daughter's post-operative recovery. The majority of girls recovered preoperative sitting (88%), standing (81%) and walking (80%) by 12 months. The decision to proceed with surgery was associated with feelings of fear, obligation, relief and guilt for families. Development of complications, poor support and feelings of isolation increased their emotional burden whereas adequate information and discharge preparation, confidence in self and staff, and balancing personal needs with their daughter's care relieved this burden.Interpretation: Our study identified clinical practice issues in relation to families whose daughter with Rett syndrome undergoes spinal fusion, issues that are also relevant to other severe disabilities. Return of wellness and gross motor skills following spinal fusion in girls with Rett syndrome occurred within the first 12 post-operative months in most cases. Parents require information and practical support to alleviate their emotional burden.

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