[Is early treatment of infants at risk of spastic diplegia warranted?].

Objective: To test the possible link between first investigation and development of spastic diplegia.

Method: A long-term retrospective study was carried out in the Neonatal Medicine Department of Arras Hospital, the C.A.M.S.P. of that town and with corresponding therapists.

Results: The study undertaken from January 1, 1991, to December 31, 1997, involved 56 children suspected of developing spastic diplegia and requiring a specialized course of treatment during the evolution of disease. In 32, evolution of disease was favourable, and in 24 spastic diplegia developed. An unfavourable evolution was significantly associated with late intervention of rehabilitation.

Conclusion: Although few pre- or neonatal factors differentiated the two groups of children in their opposite evolution, haemorrhage during pregnancy and early detection seem to be determining factors in spastic diplegia.