Communication problems are frequently encountered in quadriparetic cerebral palsy. Additionally, motor impairments often accompany this condition. Communication problems can also reduce the benefits gained from treatments, which in turn negatively affects individuals functional independence as motor impairments persist. In this study, the researchers aimed to examine the relationship between communication function, gross motor function and functional independence level.
This study is an observational study conducted with data obtained from assessment scales and does not involve any treatment. The target population of the study consists of individuals diagnosed with quadriparetic cerebral palsy (QCP). Individuals with QCP aged 0-17 years were included in the study. Detailed medical histories were taken from the participants, and they were evaluated using the Communication Function Classification System (CFCS), the Pediatric Functional Independence Measure (WeeFIM), and the Gross Motor Function Measure-88 (GMFM-88). The aim of this study is to examine the effect of communication function on gross motor function and independence.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
20
20 quadriparetic cerebral palsy cases were evaluated with the Communication Function Classification System (CFCS), Pediatric Functional Independence Scale (WeeFIM) and Gross Motor Function Measure-88 (GMFM-88).
Acıbadem Altunizade Hospital
Istanbul, Turkey (Türkiye)
Communication Function Classification System (CFCS)
The communication functions of patients were evaluated using the "Communication Function Classification System (CFCS)." CFCS assesses the daily communication performance of individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) across five levels. It evaluates all methods that affect communication performance, such as speech, facial expressions, gestures, eye contact, facial cues, and the use of augmentative and alternative communication methods. In CFCS, Level I indicates a better condition, while Level V represents more impaired situations.
Time frame: 1 month
The Pediatric Functional Independence Measure (WeeFIM)
The Pediatric Functional Independence Measure (WeeFIM) is a useful, brief, and comprehensive assessment method for identifying the functional limitations of children with developmental disorders. It consists of 18 items under the categories of self-care, sphincter control, transfers, mobility, communication, and social interaction. Each item is scored between 1 and 7. A child receives a score of 1 when performing an item with full assistance, and a score of 7 when completing it independently, safely, and in a timely manner. Afterwards, all scores are summed to calculate a percentage of independence. The WeeFIM assessments were carried out by physiotherapists based on information obtained from families. High scores on this scale indicate a high level of independence.
Time frame: 1 month
The Gross Motor Function Measure-88 (GMFM-88)
The Gross Motor Function Measure-88 (GMFM-88) was used to determine the functional performance of children. GMFM-88 is a standardized, validated observational scale, and it is mandatory to use the user manual for scoring each item. GMFM-88 evaluates five domains: lying and rolling, sitting, crawling and kneeling, standing, and walking. Each section is assessed individually, and a percentage score is calculated. The total score is obtained by averaging the percentage scores of the five sections. The items in the sections are scored as 0, 1, 2, or 3. The GMFM-88 scores were calculated by physiotherapists in strict adherence to the user manual. Total GMFM-88 score is evaluated out of 100, and higher scores indicate good gross motor development.
Time frame: 1 month
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