Understanding Spasticity: More Than Just Tight Muscles

Spasticity is a chronic condition of abnormally increased muscle tone. This causes muscles to feel stiff, tight, and difficult to control. It happens when damage to the brain or spinal cord disrupts the signals that control muscle relaxation. Spasticity can interfere with walking, talking, and daily self-care.

When physical therapy, medications, or injections fail to provide adequate relief, surgery becomes a necessary and hopeful option. It addresses the root cause of the abnormal signals, offering the potential for long-term improvement.

Why Choose Turkey for Spasticity Surgery?

Turkey has become a global center for medical excellence, particularly in pediatric and functional neurosurgery. Patients and families from around the world choose Turkey for clear reasons.

Access to Expert Neurosurgeons

Turkish neurosurgeons are highly trained, with extensive experience in complex procedures like SDR and Baclofen pump implantation. Many have trained in Europe and the United States, bringing world-class expertise to your care.

Advanced Technology and Modern Hospitals

Hospitals in Turkey are equipped with state-of-the-art technology essential for spasticity surgery, including advanced intraoperative monitoring. This technology ensures precision, protects delicate nerves, and lowers complication risks.

Cost-Effective and High-Quality Care

The cost of spasticity surgery in Turkey is significantly more affordable than in the US or UK, without compromising on the quality of care. You receive premium medical treatment at a fraction of the price.

Leading Surgical Options for Spasticity

The best surgical procedure depends on the cause of spasticity, the muscles affected, and the patient's overall health. Your surgeon will recommend the ideal option.

Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR)

Considered a gold standard for spasticity in the legs caused by cerebral palsy, SDR is a transformative procedure. A surgeon carefully tests and cuts the specific sensory nerve rootlets in the spinal cord that cause the stiffness. This permanently reduces spasticity and improves walking patterns and mobility.

Baclofen Pump Implantation

This procedure is ideal for patients with widespread spasticity. A small pump is surgically placed under the skin of the abdomen, and a thin tube delivers Baclofen (a muscle relaxant) directly to the spinal fluid. This targeted approach provides powerful relief with fewer side effects than oral medication.

Orthopedic Procedures

In some cases, spasticity may have caused permanent shortening of muscles or tendons. Orthopedic surgery can lengthen these tendons or transfer them to improve joint function and mobility. These procedures are often performed after spasticity has been controlled by other means.

Your Treatment Journey: A Step-by-Step Overview

Knowing what to expect can ease anxiety. Here is a simple overview of the process:

• Initial Consultation: Your neurosurgeon will review medical history, physical exams, and imaging to confirm the diagnosis and create the best surgical plan.
• Pre-Operative Preparation: You will undergo standard tests to ensure you are ready for the procedure.
• The Procedure: Performed under general anesthesia, the surgery's duration will depend on the chosen technique.
• Hospital Stay and Rehabilitation: You will be monitored in the hospital for several days. A dedicated physical therapy team will begin the crucial rehabilitation process to help you gain strength and function.

Are You or Your Child a Good Candidate for Surgery?

Surgery is a major decision. Your doctor will help you determine if it's the right path. Generally, good candidates are patients who:

• Have moderate to severe spasticity that limits function or causes pain.
• Experience spasticity that is not well-controlled with less invasive treatments.
• Are medically stable and in good enough health for surgery.
• Have strong family support and are committed to post-operative rehabilitation.
• Have a confirmed diagnosis, such as cerebral palsy, spinal cord injury, or multiple sclerosis.