A Case Report of Cryoneurolysis With Factor VIII Administration for Cerebral Palsy-related Spasticity in a Patient With Hemophilia A

Spasticity affects up to 80% of individuals with cerebral palsy and can lead to pain and difficulties with performing activities of daily living. If left untreated, spasticity can progress to contracture and neuro-orthopedic deformities. Cryoneurolysis is an emerging and mini-invasive ultrasound-guided technique that causes secondary axonotmesis of peripheral nerves through the formation of an ice ball and may result in months to years of improved range of motion and reduced pain in patients with spasticity. However, the safety of cryoneurolysis has not yet been established in patients with an increased bleeding risk secondary to Hemophilia A. We present a case of cryoneurolysis for cerebral palsy-related spasticity in a 14-year-old male with hemophilia A who previously had minimal benefit from botulinum toxin for increased elbow and wrist flexor tone with contracture. Fifteen minutes prior to cryoneurolysis, an IV infusion of 2000 IU of recombinant antihemophilic factor (FVIII) was administered for bleeding prophylaxis. Targets were identified with ultrasound guidance and nerve stimulation and cryoneurolysis was performed without bleeding complications or adverse events. There was an immediate improvement in tone and range of motion that was maintained at 3- and 8-month follow-ups with reported increased left arm function. This case suggests that cryoneurolysis is an effective mini-invasive procedure for spasticity that improves tone and range of motion and is safe for use in patients with Hemophilia A who receive adequate Factor VIII prophylaxis.