Investigation of health-related quality of life and caregiver burden following hip reconstructive surgery in nonambulatory children with cerebral palsy: a prospective observational study

Reconstructive hip surgery is essential for managing hip displacement in nonambulatory children with cerebral palsy (CP); however, its impact on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and caregiver burden remains unclear. This study evaluates postoperative changes in HRQoL and caregiver burden. This prospective observational study included 19 nonambulatory children with spastic CP classified as Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels III-V undergoing reconstructive hip surgery. HRQoL and caregiver burden were assessed using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL 4.0) and the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI), respectively, at baseline and during a 12-month follow-up. Subgroup analyses were performed based on Reimers' migration index, GMFCS levels, and age. PedsQL scores showed a continuous improvement over 12 months, with a significant increase from baseline to 1 year ( P < 0.001). Caregiver burden (ZBI) slightly increased at 3 months but progressively declined thereafter, with significant reductions at 9 months ( P = 0.010) and 12 months ( P = 0.002). Subgroup analyses by Reimers' migration index, GMFCS level, and age revealed no significant between-group differences in outcome scores ( P > 0.05). Reconstructive hip surgery enhances HRQoL and reduces caregiver burden over time in nonambulatory children with CP. These findings highlight the long-term benefits of surgical intervention.