Classification systems for children and adolescents with cerebral palsy: their use in clinical practice

RUIZ BRUNNER, MARIA M.; CUESTAS E; ESCOBAR JOHANA; CIERI, MARIA E.

Revista de la Facultad de Ciencias Médicas de Córdoba

Universidad Nacional de Córdoba

Año: 2020

Introduction: Classification systems are internationally used tools to characterize the functions of children and young people with cerebral palsy (CP), for clinical and research use. The aim of this study was to characterize the different classification systems available and describe the usefulness of each of the classifications, describing their use in clinical practice.Methods: An exhaustive bibliographic revision was performed using the Cochrane Database, MEDLINE, LILACS y Google Scholar databases. The search period was from 1997 to 2019 using key words. Classification systems were included that focused on functions and body structures, considered the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health, were validated and in English and Spanish. The quality of the works was assessed according to the AGREE reporting checklist.Results: Six classification systems were found for children with CP regarding their functions and body structures. Each of the systems focuses on a specific function or skill, which are: gross motor function, manual skills, communication functions, eating and drinking skills, MRIs, and visual functions.Main conclusion: All systems have been validated, standardized and used internationally. They serve to more fully describe the functional levels and body structure of children with CP both at the clinical, population and research levels.