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How Is Cerebral Palsy Diagnosed?

How Is Cerebral Palsy Diagnosed?

Cerebral palsy is a complex neurological condition that affects movement, muscle tone, and posture, often resulting from damage to the developing brain before birth. One of the most crucial questions for parents and caregivers is, ‘How is cerebral palsy diagnosed?’ Understanding the diagnostic process is essential, as early detection can significantly impact the management and treatment of the condition. This guide delves into the diagnostic process, highlighting key aspects and offering insights into the journey towards an accurate diagnosis.

At Children’s Cerebral Palsy, we are dedicated to providing specialty surgical care for children with this condition. As experts in the field, we recognize the profound difference an early and accurate diagnosis can make in the lives of children affected by this condition.

The Journey to Diagnosis

The journey to diagnosing cerebral palsy can often be a multifaceted process. It typically involves a series of different assessments, each designed to evaluate specific aspects of a child’s physical and cognitive development. This journey is critical because it sets the stage for developing a customized treatment plan catered to the child’s individual needs.

Recognizing Early Signs

Parents and pediatricians play a vital role in identifying early signs of cerebral palsy. As parents, knowing the key milestones for physical and cognitive development can help detect any delays or impairments that may indicate a potential diagnosis. On the other hand, pediatricians are trained to recognize red flags and refer the child for further evaluations if necessary. Early signs of cerebral palsy may include:

  • Delays in reaching milestones, such as crawling, walking, sitting or speaking
  • Persistent asymmetry in movement or muscle tone
  • Difficulty with coordination and balance
  • Poor fine motor skills, including difficulty grasping objects or drawing
  • Muscle tightening or abnormal reflexes
  • Difficulty with feeding or swallowing

As your child grows, these early signs of cerebral palsy may become worse. Depending on how these symptoms manifest themselves will determine the type of treatment your child will need. 

Importance of Pediatrician Evaluations

Regular check-ups with a pediatrician are essential. During these visits, doctors assess the child’s development, looking for any deviations from typical growth patterns. Pediatricians may conduct physical and neurological exams, review medical history, and ask for parental observations. Based on their findings, they may refer the child to a specialist or order other tests such as MRI, CT scan, or genetic testing. There is no specific test that can identify cerebral palsy. Instead, these evaluations are used to rule out any other conditions your child may have. 

Diagnostic Tests and Assessments

Once early signs of cerebral palsy have been observed; the diagnostic journey switches gears toward a series of tests and assessments. These comprehensive procedures are designed to rule out any other underlying conditions, offering a deeper understanding of the child’s condition and paving the way to a tailored treatment plan. This in-depth exploration utilizes cutting-edge neuroimaging techniques and thorough developmental and motor assessments, taking into consideration the child’s physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being. There are several types of cerebral palsy, and these tests and assessments may help determine the type your child may have.

Neuroimaging Techniques

Neuroimaging techniques like MRI and CT scans can offer crucial insights into a child’s brain structure and function. Additionally, cranial ultrasounds are often used in premature infants. These ultrasounds are less detailed than MRIs but are still valuable, especially in early life. These non-invasive scans provide detailed images of the brain and help identify any potential abnormalities or damage that may have led to cerebral palsy. It is important to note that neuroimaging cannot determine the severity of cerebral palsy in children.

Developmental and Motor Assessments

Developmental and motor assessments are crucial to understanding how cerebral palsy impacts a child’s daily life. These assessments evaluate muscle tone, reflexes, coordination, balance, and speech. Specialized healthcare professionals use standardized tests to compare the child’s abilities with those of children of similar age. These assessments provide valuable insights into a child’s strengths and weaknesses, helping develop an individualized treatment plan.

The Role of Early Intervention

Early detection and diagnosis of cerebral palsy are essential for optimal treatment outcomes. Early intervention programs, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, medication, or surgery, can substantially improve a child’s overall development. These interventions aim to lessen the severity of symptoms and help children overcome challenges and reach their full potential. The sooner a diagnosis is made, the sooner interventions can begin, providing the best possible outcome.

Benefits of a Multidisciplinary Approach

When it comes to cerebral palsy, a multidisciplinary approach is critical for successful management and treatment. A team of healthcare professionals, including pediatricians, neurologists, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and orthopedic surgeons, collaborate to provide holistic care. This approach ensures all aspects of the child’s development are considered, resulting in a comprehensive treatment plan.

Importance of Family Support and Education

Educating families and caregivers about cerebral palsy is essential. Support groups and resources provided by organizations like Children’s Cerebral Palsy offer invaluable assistance. Families often have many questions about their child’s diagnosis, treatment options, and long-term outcomes. By providing education and support, families can better understand the condition and actively participate in their child’s care. This holistic approach not only improves a child’s physical well-being but also supports their emotional well-being by reducing stress levels for both the child and their loved ones.

Empower Your Child’s Future – Contact Children’s Cerebral Palsy

Empowering your child’s future begins with understanding how cerebral palsy is diagnosed and taking action. We encourage you to schedule a visit with Children’s Cerebral Palsy. We are committed to providing comprehensive, specialized care tailored to your child’s needs. Children’s Cerebral Palsy guides you through the diagnostic process and stands with you on the journey to creating the best possible future for your child. Don’t wait to take the first crucial step. Let’s work together towards a brighter tomorrow. Schedule a visit today.

 

December 20, 2023
How Is Cerebral Palsy Diagnosed?
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Cerebral Palsy Patient Finishes Marathon During Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month

Cerebral Palsy Patient Finishes Marathon During Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month

A 32-year-old man from Spain who has faced a lifelong battle with Cerebral Palsy finished the Barcelona Marathon during Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month and completed an improbable but inspiring feat.

Alex Roca of Catalonia, Spain, finished the race on March 19, completing it in 5:50:51 and fulfilling a lifelong dream.

At sixth months old, Roca contracted herpetic viral encephalitis, which led to a severe case of Cerebral Palsy, which causes impaired movement and exaggerated reflexes, reducing the range of motion at various joints due to muscle stiffness.

But Roca, who completed seven half marathons before his first full marathon, did not let that stop him from completing the race. He offered an inspirational message after the race.

“The limit is up to you, and if you want to achieve an objective, whatever difficulties you have, with attitude, willpower, perseverance and resilience, you can achieve everything you propose,” he said. “And if you do not achieve it, you will have given everything and must feel gratified.”

Roca is a sponsored Nike Athlete, and the clothing brand offered its congratulations in an Instagram post.

“Alex set himself to accomplish a world-class breakthrough: Finishing a marathon with 76% physical disability and Cerebral palsy. Now, he has just achieved that milestone. It’s time to enjoy it, but new goals will show up sooner rather than later,” Nike said.

March is Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month

During Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month Dr. David Siambanes, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, said that there is hope for children with Cerebral Palsy.

“I have seen children gain the motivation to walk at a later age. As the child grows, the results of the condition become more apparent providing clarity and accuracy in answering these important questions,” he said, “With routine multi-specialty assessments, the parents will obtain knowledge on how the condition affects their child. This knowledge along with the necessary treatment intervention that often is required will result in the optimal care and functional development of their child.”

For more information on procedures to treat Cerebral Palsy, or to contact Dr. Siambanes, please click here.

 

March 20, 2023
Cerebral Palsy Patient Finishes Marathon During Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month
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Dr. David Siambanes on Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month

Dr. David Siambanes on Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month

 

March is National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month, and Dr. David Siambanes is sharing a message of hope and optimism for children battling Cerebral Palsy.

 

“The parents of a child recently diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy are often devastated,” Siambanes says. “How and why is the first question that arises.”
He continued:
Cerebral Palsy is a broad term describing a movement, tone, and posture disorder, usually due to a condition in the brain. While a clear source may exist, such as prematurity, genetic conditions or failure of brain development, the source is sometimes unknown.
Diagnosing a child with cerebral palsy is also often difficult as there is no definitive test. Thus, we rely on clinical findings and the lack of functional development as early signs of the condition. Additionally, determining what this diagnosis means to your child specifically can be challenging early on as there exists a wide spectrum of severity within this diagnosis. A child with cerebral palsy may develop a mild degree of toe walking, and others may not ambulate and can develop spinal and hip deformities. Will my child walk? Have a learning disability? Require surgery?

“A general rule is if a child is unable to sit unsupported by two years of age or walk by seven, he or she will be unlikely to do so,” said Siambanes.

However, with proper treatment, there are plenty of reasons to be optimistic during this Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month. Dr. David Siambanes says:

I have seen children gain the motivation to walk at a later age. As the child grows, the results of the condition become more apparent providing clarity and accuracy in answering these important questions. With routine multi-specialty assessments, the parents will obtain knowledge on how the condition affects their child. This knowledge, along with the necessary treatment intervention that often is required, will result in the optimal care and functional development of their child. 
For more information on procedures to treat Cerebral Palsy or to contact Dr. Siambanes, please click here.
March 2, 2023
Dr. David Siambanes on Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month
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Cerebral Palsy Risk Factors, and when to be concerned for your infant

Cerebral Palsy Risk Factors, and when to be concerned for your infant

 

In the first year of an infant’s life, it is critical to be on the lookout for Cerebral Palsy risk factors in your child.

There are many Cerebral Palsy risk factors that can contribute the condition, particularly during pregnancy and at birth, and those whose pregnancies are complicated by such factors should be especially aware of warning signs.

Cerebral Palsy Risk Factors:

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a small percentage of Cerebral Palsy cases result from injuries sustained 28 days after birth. Those cases have been attributed to brain infections like meningitis, suffering serious head injuries.

When to be concerned:

The CDC breaks down early warning signs of Cerebral Palsy for various ages.

In a baby 3 to 6 months of age:

  • Head falls back when picked up while lying on back
  • Feels stiff
  • Feels floppy
  • Seems to overextend back and neck when cradled in someone’s arms
  • Legs get stiff and cross or scissor when picked up

In a baby older than 6 months of age:

  • Doesn’t roll over in either direction
  • Cannot bring hands together
  • Has difficulty bringing hands to mouth
  • Reaches out with only one hand while keeping the other fisted

In a baby older than 10 months of age: 

  • Crawls in a lopsided manner, pushing off with one hand and leg while dragging the opposite hand and leg
  • Scoots around on buttocks or hops on knees, but does not crawl on all four

If your child exhibits any of these symptoms, visit a doctor as soon as possible.

Dr. David Siambanes, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, is fellowship trained in both pediatric orthopedics and spinal deformities, who treats children suffering from Cerebral Palsy.

For more information on procedures to treat Cerebral Palsy, or to contact Dr. Siambanes, please click here.

February 17, 2023
Cerebral Palsy Risk Factors, and when to be concerned for your infant
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Cerebral Palsy Surgery Options to Consider in 2023 for Children

Cerebral Palsy Surgery Options to Consider in 2023 for Children

 

In the new year, you may be wondering how to alleviate the pain and increase the quality of life for a child who has Cerebral Palsy.

Fortunately, there are solutions that are worth considering in 2023. Cerebral Palsy surgery is one of those solutions.

There are two main types of surgery for Cerebral Palsy:

  • Orthopedic surgery: Children with severe contractures or deformities might benefit from surgery on bones or joints to place their arms, spine, hips or legs in their correct positions. Such surgical procedures can also lengthen muscles and lengthen or reposition tendons that are shortened by contractures. These corrections can lessen pain and improve mobility for children with Cerebral Palsy. The procedures can also make it easier to use other tools for combatting Cerebral Palsy, like a walker, braces or crutches.
  • Cutting nerve fibers (selective dorsal rhizotomy): In severe cases of Cerebral Palsy, when other treatments haven’t helped, surgeons can perform a procedure that involves cutting the nerves serving specific spastic muscles, called selective dorsal rhizotomy. This procedure can help relax the muscles in the legs and reduce pain.

Without Cerebral Palsy surgery, there are other options to consider for a pain-free 2023, too.

For example, physical therapy can help a child’s strength, flexibility, balance, motor development and mobility, and occupation therapy can help your child gain independence in daily activities and routines. The latter can help improve your child’s use of walkers, wide-based canes, standing and seating systems, or electric wheelchairs.

For more information on Cerebral Palsy surgery, click here.

 

January 12, 2023
Cerebral Palsy Surgery Options to Consider in 2023 for Children
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Gift Ideas for Children With Cerebral Palsy

Gift Ideas for Children With Cerebral Palsy

 

With the gift-giving season on the horizon, you might be wondering what types of gifts to purchase for children with Cerebral Palsy.

The Children’s Cerebral Palsy Treatment Center has plenty of answers for all of your gift-giving questions.

Like any gift, it is important that the gift you give to a child with Cerebral Palsy is age-appropriate, matches the child’s developmental stage, and is something that matches the child’s interest. So, if a child for whom you are buying a gift likes animals, get them something related to animals.

Gifts ideas for children with Cerebral Palsy include:

  • Fidget toys that might help strengthen grip
  • Fold and Go trampolines that might help improve balance and leg strength
    • Find a trampoline with a safety rail for extra security.
  • An indoor therapy swing that might help with balance, muscle building, and fine motor skill development
  • Magnetic building blocks, which are a substitute for building block toys that make building easier for children with a lack of fine motor skills
  • Flashcard games for children with special needs
    • A common flashcard game for children with Cerebral Palsy is Feelings in a Flash, which teaches children to identify their emotions and increases their emotional intelligence
  • It is important for children with Cerebral Palsy to socialize, so any gifts that encourage socialization

There are some gifts that we should avoid purchasing for children with Cerebral Palsy.

Gifts that overstimulate the child, particularly if the child has a sensitivity to bright lights or loud noises, should be avoided.

So should toys that require fine motor skills, which the child may not have. Such toys can be frustrating for a child with Cerebral Palsy, and they might not get enjoyment out of playing with a toy that requires such motor skills.

It may take a little bit of extra care, but you can brighten a child’s holiday season with the right gift.

The team at the Children’s Cerebral Palsy Treatment Center wishes you and yours a joyous holiday season!

December 15, 2022 ,
Gift Ideas for Children With Cerebral Palsy
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Preparing Children With Scoliosis for Cold Weather Months

Preparing Children With Scoliosis for Cold Weather Months

Children with scoliosis and Cerebral Palsy already have a difficult time regulating their body temperature, and
cold weather can bring some negative symptoms. In most cases, the hypothalamus is often
damaged with Cerebral Palsy, which might result in autonomic nervous system dysfunction. It is
important to be highly prepared for the beginning of winter weather with any type of Cerebral
Palsy to reduce any negative symptoms that may arise.

The Autonomic Nervous System & Hypothalamus

Since the hypothalamus may be damaged in children with scoliosis and Cerebral Palsy, children may experience body dysfunction and other organ-related disorders/diseases. When the weather is cold, the hypothalamus will sense it and send signals to the muscles that make a person shiver, creating warmth. Children with scoliosis and Cerebral Palsy might not have this basic function because of the potentially damaged hypothalamus and autonomic nervous system. The hypothalamus might also signal the brain to constrict blood vessels to prevent heat loss, but in children with Cerebral Palsy, this might also not be possible.

Preparing for Winter Weather Conditions

Keeping the body warm is essential, and traveling with additional winter clothing can cut down the possibilities of negative symptoms associated with freezing conditions. Sizing up in clothing can also make it simple to layer on top of braces and Velcro straps, making them easier to remove. If residing in a place with frequent or excessive snowfall, it might help to invest in wheelchair tires with extra traction and reinforce ramps. Colder weather affects muscle movements and spasms as well, so acquiring wearable safety materials is imperative.

Other ways to combat weather conditions may include:
– Drinking or eating something warm/cool
– Maintaining heat/air sources in the home and vehicle
– Dress appropriately for current conditions
– Warm or cool baths
– Bring warm or cool water bottles
– Travel with extra essential items in case of emergency
– Medical equipment, blankets, thermal winter clothing, warm/cold compressions
– Stretch muscles often in a safe way to avoid stiffness or spasms

This may feel overwhelming at first, but you will be better prepared for many weather-related situations. Be sure to monitor children closely and be aware of any signs or symptoms of hypothermia or heat stroke. By staying prepared for any weather conditions, your family can maintain a comfortable and regular routine while minimizing any weather-related complications.

 

November 1, 2022 ,
Preparing Children With Scoliosis for Cold Weather Months
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Inclusive Halloween Tips For Children With CP

Inclusive Halloween Tips For Children With CP

Halloween is a special time of year where children can do costumes, take on the persona of their heroes, and venture through their neighborhood in search of the highest quality of sweets. For children with cerebral palsy (CP), however, this can be a time where certain traditions are difficult to participate in due to lack of accessibility. To remedy this, Dr. David Siambanes, pediatric orthopedist and founder of Children’s Cerebral Palsy (CCP), is offering Halloween tips on how they can make their stop inclusive for children with CP.

“Every kid with disabilities deserves the opportunity to experience Halloween like everyone else, which takes some consideration and initiative among members of their community,” said Siambanes, a board-certified and fellowship-trained spine surgeon. “A few simple tricks can really make kids with CP feel included in the holiday festivities.”

Dr. Siambanes suggests those expecting trick-or-treaters to take the following Halloween tips to make their home more accessible to children with CP:

  • Keep on outdoor lights. Humps or gaps in the sidewalk can make navigating a path especially tricky for those in wheelchairs or requiring crutches. Bright lights and a well-lit pathway can make the trip to the front porch much easier.
  • Clear a path. Make sure the pathway leading to your candy depository is clear of objects and barriers. Try to make the walkway wide enough for children who require walking devices. 
  • Meet at the street. If your house has stairs and is without a ramp, consider meeting trick-or-treaters at the curb or put your treat basket at the bottom of the stairs so every child can have access to it.
  • Include toys with treats. Approximately 30–40% of children with CP have difficulty eating and have dietary restrictions. Consider including toys and non-edible playthings as items to be handed out to make sure children with dietary restrictions have something to take home.
  • Don’t point out a child’s disability. While having CP is nothing to be ashamed of, children with CP respond positively to being treated like everyone else. You may find a child who is struggling to walk up the stairs to be brave and strong, but try not to single them out or comment on their struggle, even if the comment is positive. While it’s appropriate to tell them they did a great job, be sure to comment on their costume choice, their amount of candy or anything that doesn’t draw attention to their disability.

Halloween is a perfect time of year to help address and change stigmas associated with children with CP. Dr. Siambanes encourages parents to talk with their children, friends, and neighbors about the importance of making holidays like Halloween fun and inclusive for everyone, including those with disabilities. Taking the initiative to be more inclusive during Halloween can inspire others to be just as mindful throughout the year. 

October 10, 2022
Inclusive Halloween Tips For Children With CP
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Back-to-School Tips for 2022

Back-to-School Tips for 2022

Parents and children already endure an incredible number of challenges when it comes to education, and the pandemic added to those challenges. Schools around the world put COVID-19 protocols in place for the foreseeable future and special education facilities have increased the protection of their students returning back to school. 

These new changes can be a struggle for students and teachers, especially those with special needs and coexisting conditions, including cerebral palsy. Now that learning is back to in-person, students with disabilities can return to regular socialization and access to vital resources. 

Common challenges associated with remote learning for children with disabilities include taking those children out of their regular routines and dramatically reducing one-on-one learning and in-person socialization with students in the classroom.

Just as the pandemic brought challenges, there were also many brilliant new ideas that came to fruition. Many different resources helped students during these times, and they can still be used in the classroom, enhancing their digital learning experience. When we factor in-person learning into their daily routine, these tips can be crucial for a positive learning experience.

Dr. Siambanes asks parents of children with cerebral palsy to consider including the following items in their child’s in-person learning checklist:

  • Make sure any items your child needs are packed ahead of time (assistive devices, adaptive equipment, etc.)
  • Pack extra face masks and hand sanitizer
  • Review the school calendar daily, monitoring any changes to the schedule
  • Know your child’s educational team thoroughly, and keep in contact with them
  • Ask for assistance if you are unsure of new protocols

When ensuring educational success, it is critical to take important changes and specialty programs into account. Make sure to stay in contact with the recommended professionals, while writing down all your questions, concerns, and needs.

Returning to school can be nerve-wracking for the parent and child, especially when factoring in COVID-19. This has been a difficult time for many and understanding the resources you and your child have at school is very important. Transitional changes can be navigated with the right help from your child’s educational team. 

If you or your child begin feeling overwhelmed or stressed, understand there are people on the special education team for that reason. Many teachers are happy to help and have prior experience with these feelings. It is always okay to reach out for help.

It is important to monitor your child’s feelings and behaviors to identify potential issues, including:

  • Behavioral changes
  • Grade changes
  • Developmental changes
  • Emotional changes

While this may seem like a lot to digest, you will be better prepared for situations that arise. Problems may occur, but you can rest assured that you and your child’s educational team can navigate these problems together. 

By having a strong support system in your child’s family life and educational life, you can learn how to set your child up for success. Many of these things can help your student begin to realize that they can do anything they set their mind to, the opportunities are limitless.

September 5, 2022 , ,
Back-to-School Tips for 2022
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How swimming can help kids with cerebral palsy beat the summer heat, play with friends and improve their overall health

How swimming can help kids with cerebral palsy beat the summer heat, play with friends and improve their overall health

Children with cerebral palsy do not have to be excluded from summer fun with friends and family, and one way to get the kids in the neighborhood together for an inclusive activity is to go swimming. After all, who doesn’t love swimming in the dog days of summer? 

Children with CP can greatly benefit from swimming with proper supervision by a caregiver or therapist, and with flotation devices, if necessary.

“Because we are more buoyant in water, the effects of gravity decline, providing ideal conditions for those with cerebral palsy to stretch and extend muscles and joints with less resistance than one would experience out of the water,” said Dr. David Siambanes, founder of Children’s Cerebral Palsy. “More freedom of movement when swimming means a larger range of motion that can actually help those with CP make progress in their maneuverability.” 

Swimming also has fantastic rehabilitative qualities for those with CP. A study by the National Institute of Health (NIH) showed that for children ages five through 13 with CP who swam for two hours per week gained gross motor function in just six weeks. 

Children with CP also benefit from the overall health effects of swimming, which is a cardiovascular workout that also builds muscle strength. 

Through swimming and other physical activities, kids with CP — and all of us — can improve metabolic rates, increase blood circulation and joint range of motion, improve bone density, fend off anxiety and stress, and boost our energy levels. 

For more information on swimming and other physical activities that can benefit those with Cerebral Palsy, contact Children’s Cerebral Palsy today! 

August 8, 2022 ,
How swimming can help kids with cerebral palsy beat the summer heat, play with friends and improve their overall health
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About Dr. Siambanes

Dr. Siambanes, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, is fellowship trained in both pediatric orthopedics and spinal deformities. His passion for addressing the needs of disabled children has led to his expertise in the treatment of Cerebral Palsy.

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Helping Children & Families

  • I scheduled an appointment with Dr. Siambanes to see if my daughter was a candidate for scoliosis surgery. The results following her surgery were fantastic! She flew through surgery and came home only 4 days after! She now sits up straight, her incision has healed beautifully and there were no complications. I cannot express my gratitude to Dr. Siambanes for the amazing surgery he performed on my daughter. He alone took her on when no one else would touch her and now her life has been prolonged and she has a much better quality of life.

    Mrs. Wakizaka

  • As a parent, hearing your child needs corrective surgery that includes placing rods and screws in the body, a five day hospital stay and three weeks of recovery can be overwhelming to say the least. Dr. Siambanes and his wonderful staff eased 100% of the stress and worry while making what was in my mind a harrowing ordeal equal to an afternoon visit to the dentist. The hospital staff was attentive and eager to help in anyway possible. My son’s recovery has gone so well and he has healed so quickly, family and friends are amazed he even had surgery.

    Mrs. McKinnon

  • We would like to thank you for all you have done for our granddaughter. Not to very long ago things were not looking very good for Alyssa. That has all changed because of you. You have given her back her future. Thank you so very much. God bless you and keep you.

    Mr. & Mrs. Wajenhurst