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8:25pm, Sydney Today the international conferenec began at the convention centre at Darling Harbour. There are 1355 delegates in attendance (of which I am one) from 44 different countries. The conference is mainly scientific in nature but there are a couple of streams that deal with social aspects. The theme of the conference is 'Cerebral Palsy, across the life span' So what have I learnt today? What has suprised me is the lack of knowledge of CP across the life span! Up to age 21 all is reasonably understood, after that it is mainly conjecture with only scant research having been done. A presentation by Dr Hank Chambers from San Diego (he has an adult son with CP) was the high light. What disturbs him about adults with CP that he sees is a long litany of issues that include: |
 Dr Hank Chamber from San Diego |
Poor dental care that can lead to death, lack of gyneacological care or breast screening for women, oesteoporosis after menapause, pulmonary function decreasing leading to loss of speech, substance abuse (mainly alcohol), back problems and skin ulcers, lack of esteem issues that lead on to antidepressant medication... there's more but that's for another day. Staying active and good diet are key to minimising the affects of aging... just like the able bodied.
One of the general themes coming out is that when treating a child or young person, it is always important to keep the eventual adult in mind. An operation in youth to enhance function in the short term may negate the possibility of doing other operations in adulthood.This has highlighted the need for a new approach to hip suveillance. A consensus document has been printed recommending an approach that will give the best results for the person throughout their life.
A presentation by Prof
Hank Graham, an Australian orthopeadic surgeon resulted in some interesting
opinions, namely, that SDR may be overused and long term outcomes
need further monitoring. One problem with studies were that they were
of a 1-3 year duration, and adverse affects often don't show up till
10 years later. He also concluded that hip displacement was mainly
due to 'activity limitation' and spasticity probably only played a
small role...... use it or lose it. The growth spurts of adolescence
would invariable adversely affect the motor function for the young
adult. Monitoring a person with cerebral palsy all the way through
to skeletal maturity was very important.
Well that's enough for now. I will report again on Friday night.
Cheers..... Harvey Brunt
Main hall with all delegates in attendance