Neuromuscular block practice in the treatment of spasticity in Brazil

Abstract

Botulinum toxin type A (TBA) is one of the most effective and safe treatments for spasticity. To evaluate some scales can be used, as the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS). Therapeutic success in the application depends on the correct identification of the problem and biomechanical application of the affected muscle, which can be done by surface palpation techniques or auxiliary methods such as electromyography. Objective: To evaluate the methods of TBA applications for the treatment of spasticity performed in the practice of medical rehabilitation for children and adults. Methods: exploratory, cross-sectional study with a convenience sample size recruited in scientific events in Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Goiânia, Belo Horizonte, Curitiba and Ribeirão Preto (Brazil). Questionnaires regarding the treatment of spasticity containing multiple choice questions about groups of patients and treated muscles were applied. Responses were analyzed for frequency for each answer. No association test of variables or hypothesis were used. Results: 49 questionnaires were analyzed. 47% apply TBA for less than five years. The most used technique for locating points of application was muscular palpation (80%). To quantify the functional gains, 78% reported the use the MAS scale. 57% applies in adults and children. The most common children age group treated was 5-10 years (83%) and the most treated muscle group was the triceps surae (73.8%). Regarding the use of phenol, 16 used with a frequency of 1 to 5 patients per month. 45% of applicators used phenol associeted with TBA. Conclusion: The TBA is widely used in the treatment of spasticity, however there is no standardization in the form of application, method of analyzing the treatment success or the necessity of a combined agent