Publications by authors named "G P Hewawitharana"

Aim: To determine the feasibility of combining the Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination (HINE) and General Movements Assessment (GMA) within a standard follow-up schedule to predict developmental outcomes in infants at risk in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Method: A total of 201 Sri Lankan infants (128 male, 73 female) were prospectively assessed with the GMA before 44 weeks (writhing movements) and at 3 to 4 months (fidgeting movements), followed by the HINE at 5 to 6 months. Developmental outcomes were assessed using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Fourth Edition and clinical assessment after 24 months.

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Purpose: This study aimed to identify factors, including degree of disability, that contribute to the caregiver burden of raising children with cerebral palsy in Sri Lanka.

Methods: Participants were caregivers of children with cerebral palsy attending the pediatric neurology clinic of the only tertiary care center in southern Sri Lanka. The locally validated Caregiver Difficulties Scale (CDS) was administered, and demographic information was obtained in a structured interview.

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Antiepileptics drugs are the mainstay of the management of epilepsy in children. Sodium valproate (VPA) and carbamazepine (CBZ) are widely used medications in childhood epilepsy. Hyperammonemia has been described as a known side effect of valproate therapy.

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Purpose: Abrupt halt of service provision due to pandemic state of COVID-19, significantly affected care of patients with chronic diseases like epilepsy; its impact being greater on caregivers of vulnerable groups such as children with epilepsy. We performed this study to describe difficulties posed by the lockdown to caregivers of children with epilepsy in a low-middle income country and describe their responses and self-management strategies to overcome difficulties and prepare for a recurrence.

Method: A cross-sectional all-island survey was carried out at paediatric neurology centers in Sri Lanka.

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