Do grip and pinch strength predict neurologic complications in children with spina bifida and hydrocephalus?
GROUND: Neurological complications occur commonly in children with meningomyelocele and can cause significant morbidity and mortality. An earlier study suggested that acute changes in grip and pinch strength could be used to identify individuals at increased risk for developing a neurological complication. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the use of grip and pinch measurements to screen for neurological problems in children with spina bifida and hydrocephalus. DESIGN: A prospective evaluation of screening tests. PATIENTS: 92 children, born since 1976, who had meningomyelocele and hydrocephalus and were treated at the University of Rochester Medical Center. METHODS: Grip and pinch strength were measured between July, 1991, and June, 2003. RESULTS: Mean grip and pinch strengths were similar to those found in previous studies of children with meningomyelocele; 58 neurological events occurred in 39 (40%) individuals. These included 31 episodes of ventricular shunt failure and 22 symptomatic tethered
