What is CPS Surgery?
The Periarterial Carotid Sympathetic Plexus Denervation (CPS) involves the precision stripping of the sympathetic nerve plexus located in the adventitia (outer layer) of the common carotid artery. By modulating these nerves, surgeons can achieve significant improvements in how the brain receives blood and how it manages autonomic functions.
Key Benefits & Goals
Professor Sun Chenyan utilizes CPS as a "starting point" for patients who are resistant to standard rehabilitation:
- Improved Cerebral Perfusion: Increases blood flow and oxygenation to the brain tissues, promoting better cognitive and motor foundations.
- Sialorrhea Control: Provides a long-term solution for severe, refractory drooling (saliva control), which significantly improves hygiene and social integration.
- Reduction of Spasticity: Helps relax the limbs by modulating general nervous system excitability.
- Speech & Swallowing: Many patients show improvements in vocal clarity and swallowing safety after the procedure.
The Eber Advantage
Based on thousands of successful cases, CPS at Eber is integrated into our Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) approach. We use it not as an isolated fix, but as a way to "prepare" the brain for more intensive Stage 3 rehabilitation.
Clinical Indications
CPS is recommended for patients who present with:
- Severe, constant drooling that hasn't responded to medication.
- Mixed forms of Cerebral Palsy with high autonomic excitability.
- Poor concentration and "clouded" cognitive states.
- Limb stiffness and motor awkwardness in both arms and legs.
Post-Surgical Recovery
The procedure is minimally invasive relative to its impact. Hospitalization typically lasts 5-7 days. Most patients begin to see improvements in saliva control within the first two weeks, allowing them to focus more effectively on their physical and occupational therapy sessions.