Factors Influencing the Gross Motor Outcome of Intensive Therapy in Children with Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Delay

The study was designed to identify factors influencing the short term effect of intensive therapy on gross motor function in children with cerebral palsy or developmental delay. Retrospectively, total Gross Motor Function Measure-88 (GMFM-88) scores measured during the first and last weeks of intensive therapy were analyzed (n = 103). Good and poor responder groups were defined as those in the top and bottom 25% in terms of score difference, respectively. The GMFM-88 score increased to 4.67 ± 3.93 after 8 weeks of intensive therapy (P < 0.001). Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level (I–II vs. IV–V; odds ratio [OR] = 7.763, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.177–27.682, P = 0.002) was a significant factor in a good response to therapy. Age (≥ 36 months; OR = 2.737, 95% CI = 1.003–7.471, P = 0.049) and GMFCS level (I–II vs. IV–V; OR = 0.189, 95% CI = 0.057–0.630, P = 0.007; and III vs. IV–V; OR = 0.095, 95% CI = 0.011–0.785, P = 0.029) were significantly associated with a poor response. GMFCS level is the most important prognostic factor for the effect of intensive therapy on gross motor function. In addition, age ≥ 36 months, is associated with a poor outcome.

Conversion of Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy to Gastrojejunostomy Under Fluoroscopic Guidance for Treatment of Gastrocutaneous Fistula

Persistent enterocutaneous fistula after the removal of a gastrostomy tube is an unusual complication of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG). The following case report describes an 81-year-old man diagnosed with stroke and dysphagia in May 2008. The patient had been using a PEG since 2008, and PEG site infection occurred in June 2013. The PEG tube was removed and a new PEG tube was inserted. Thereafter, formation of gastrocutaneous fistula around the previous infected PEG site was observed. The fistula was refractory to medical management, accompanied by long duration of fasting and peripheral alimentation. Therefore, gastrojejunostomy tube insertion via the previously inserted PEG tube was performed, under fluoroscopic guidance; this mode of management was successful. For patients who have a gastrocutaneous fistula, gastrojejunostomy tube insertion via the pre-existing PEG tube is a safe and effective alternative management for enteral feeding.