Unique treatment at BC Childrens Hospital helps teen walk

An innovative treatment at BC Childrens Hospital has transformed 13-year-old Darrion Paynes life.

Darrion suffers from cerebral palsy, and one of the many painful symptoms he developed, is whats known as a crouch gait. His knees were bent at 65 degrees and walking became extremely painful.

Darrion Paynes knees were bent at 65 degrees

Darrion still uses a wheelchair to get around, but thanks to this new therapy, hes no longer confined to the chair.

Kind of surprised because I really wasnt able to move, says Darrion.

BC childrens hospital is the only centre in North America using a unique surgical technique to correct crouch gait. Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Kishore Mulpuri says the method has fewer risks than other treatments.

What we have done here is we have taken out roughly about 4-5cm segment of the bone and we fixed it with a stainless steel plate.

Dr. Mulpuri has taken out roughly 4-5cm segment of the bone. Photo on right shows bone after it completely healed. The bent knee is down about 10-12 degrees.

After surgery, the bent knee angle is reduced to between 10 and 12 degrees.

The results have been dramatic for patients like Darrion. Of the six patients who have undergone the surgery, with the addition of intense physiotherapy, all are now able to walk.

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Unique treatment at BC Childrens Hospital helps teen walk