Recent developments in functional assessment tools for ambulatory patients with cerebral palsy

Recently, increased emphasis has been placed on providing measurable improvement in functional outcomes of interventions in cerebral palsy (CP). This review covers the most current research into CP functional assessment tools and the advice recently published papers give for their use. A new gait assessment tool, the Gait Deviation Index, was developed to determine gait deviations with a new mathematical model. Several large multicenter studies have examined currently available functional assessment tools in relation to Gross Motor Function Classification System as a means of determining which tools are predictive of function in relation to several patient parameters. An association between the Pediatric Orthopaedic Data Collection Instrument (PODCI) score, age, and functional level was developed. One group has presented research suggesting emphasis on using well being assessment to measure of quality of life over assessment of function limitation. CP outcomes assessment remains a difficult clinical challenge. New tools for assessment continue to be developed and validated. Established tools continue to be improved. Further validation by expansion of study groups and continuing to critically analyze orthopaedic intervention for functional and quality-of-life improvement will improve the care of this patient population.