Orthopaedic treatments of poliomyelitis acuta anterior
This doctoral dissertation describes the consequences of poliomyelitis of the musculoskeletal system as well as surgical interventions and conservative orthopaedic (therapeutic principles) treatments. It concerns a historical summary of the various treatments of poliomyelitis.
An infection with the poliomyelitic virus can cause an inflammatory perivascular infiltration with the risk of glios scarring of the anterior horn of the spinal cord, the nucleus of the cerebral nerves in the medulla oblongata, pons and the midbrain. The clinical appearance is flaccid paralysis and muscular dysbalance which can be responsible for skeletal deformities, contractures and abnormal function of the joints. The reduced economy of movement may contribute to increased fatigue, weakness, pain and loss of function and activity. The muscles affected by poliomyelitis do not have the physiologic capacity to adapt. Chronic overuse of partially denervated muscles leads to muscle atrophy.
A main role in physiotherapeutic treatment is the instruction and training of compensatory movements and tricks to enable the patient to gain a high level of independence in everyday life. The balance between activity and regeneration, lifestyle modification, support of family and friends and ergonomic changes in the work place are essential. To reduce a deformation of the joints and to increase mobility many patients use orthoses, walking aids and various other aids.
Several deformities following the poliomyelitic infection can be corrected surgically. Many procedures to stabilize joints or increase functionality thereof have been developed. Generally, surgical interventions can be divided into operations on the bone (e.g. arthrodesis, osteotomy, and arthroplasty) and on soft tissue (e.g. transfer of muscle and tendon, capsulotomy, fasciotomy, tendon lengthening, and soft tissue release). Operative treatment should focus not only on correction of the deformity but also on stabilization of joints and muscle balance. The exact preoperative analysis of the deformity is essential.