Spastic quadriplegia (antenatal period)
Spastic quadriplegia occurs in patients with the most severe form of Cerebral Palsy. Spastic quadriplegia causes marked motor impairment of all four limbs. Patients with this condition may also have dysfunction of the muscles of the mouth and tongue.
What are the Complications of spastic Quadriplegia?
Complications of spastic quadriplegia are bowel and bladder dysfunction, cognitive difficulties, seizures, and dysfunction of the mouth and tongue. Children with spastic quadriplegia may also show signs of mental retardation and have vision problems. Other complications of this condition include scoliosis and hip dislocation.
What Causes Spastic Quadriplegia?
Spastic quadriplegia can be the result of an infection or complication during pregnancy. Some of the most frequent causes of spastic quadriplegia are associated with the child’s ability to acquire sufficient oxygen during childbirth. Oxygen deprivation (asphyxia) can cause damage to the part of the baby’s brain that controls voluntary movements, the motor cortex. When the motor cortex is damaged, it will be more difficult for the brain to communicate with the muscles on either side of the body. Oxygen deprivation can also result from premature separation of the placenta and umbilical cord entanglements. Spastic quadriplegia can be the result of errors made by a medical professional or a condition that developed during pregnancy that was left untreated.
