Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita

An analysis of the patients seen at the Teletón Uruguay Rehabilitation Center

Abstract

Introduction: arthrogryposis multiplex congenita includes a series of heterogeneous disorders characterized by multiple joint contractures.
Objective: to describe demographic, clinical and functional characteristics of patients with amyoplasia type AMC.
Method: retrospective descriptive study conducted by reviewing the medical histories of patients with amyoplasia type AMC, who were admitted during a 5 year period. The WeeFim scale was used as an instrument to measure functional independence.
Results: 19 patients were included. They all received physiotherapy and those whose upper limbs were compromised also received occupational therapy. Ninety five percent used some kind of orthosis. Also, 95% were treated with serial casting, the majority of which were used in the lower limbs. Seventy four per cent of patients underwent orthopedic surgery. Those patients whose lower limbs were compromised were also operated on their feet. Ten (67%) out of 15 (79%) children whose lower limbs are compromised evidenced community ambulation.
Conclusions: the characteristics of 19 children were analysed. As to the AVD in children over three years old with upper limb compromise, almost all of them may eat on their own, and getting dressed above their waist is the activity they find the hardest. Thus, we point out the importance of occupational therapy. In spite of the fact that a large number of children have their lower limbs compromised, most of them achieve community ambulance. In order to do so, they need physiotherapy and most orthopedic treatments such as serial casting and/or orthopedic surgeries in the lower limbs.