Guidance
Recommendations for research
The guideline committee has made the following recommendations for research.
Key recommendations for research
1 Method of botulinum toxin type A injection in treating focal spasticity
Is guided botulinum toxin type A injection using electrical localisation (electrostimulation or electromyography) of muscles more clinically and cost effective than ultrasound-guided injections or clinical positioning for localisation of injections in treating focal spasticity in adults with cerebral palsy?
For a short explanation of why the committee made the recommendation for research, see the rationale on drug treatments for spasticity.
Full details of the evidence and the committee's discussion are in evidence review A1: pharmacological treatments for spasticity.
2 Selective dorsal rhizotomy treatment to reduce spasticity
What is the clinical and cost effectiveness of selective dorsal rhizotomy compared with intrathecal baclofen to reduce spasticity in adults with cerebral palsy?
For a short explanation of why the committee made the recommendation for research, see the rationale on neurosurgical treatments to reduce spasticity.
Full details of the evidence and the committee's discussion are in evidence review A2: neurosurgical treatments for spasticity.
3 Detection and management of respiratory disorders in primary and community care
Can detection and management of respiratory disorders in adults with cerebral palsy be improved in primary and community care?
For a short explanation of why the committee made the recommendation for research, see the rationale on identifying and monitoring respiratory disorders.
Full details of the evidence and the committee's discussion are in evidence review C1: protocols for monitoring respiratory health.
4 Prophylactic antibiotics for respiratory disorders
Are prophylactic antibiotics clinically and cost effective in the management of respiratory symptoms in adults with cerebral palsy with significant respiratory comorbidity?
For a short explanation of why the committee made the recommendation for research, see the rationale on prophylactic treatments for respiratory infections .
Full details of the evidence and the committee's discussion are in evidence review C3: prophylactic treatments for respiratory disorders.
5 Splinting to improve or maintain posture or function
What is the optimum regimen for splints applied to the upper limb in adults with cerebral palsy to improve or maintain posture or function?
For a short explanation of why the committee made the recommendation for research, see the rationale on physical activity, orthopaedic surgery and orthotics.
Full details of the evidence and the committee's discussion are in evidence review D2: interventions that improve or maintain physical function and participation.
6 Augmentative and alternative communication systems
Are augmentative and alternative communication systems clinically and cost effective in promoting communication for adults with cerebral palsy who have communication difficulties?
For a short explanation of why the committee made the recommendation for research, see the rationale on communication.
Full details of the evidence and the committee's discussion are in evidence review D4: interventions to promote participation: communication.