Reliability and Validity of the Modified Heckmatt Scale in Evaluating Muscle Changes With Ultrasound in Spasticity
Marisa C. Moreta, Alana Fleet, Rajiv Reebye, Gina McKernan, Michael Berger, Jordan Farag, Michael C. Munin
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: To determine the reliability and validity of the Modified Heckmatt scale in assessing muscle echotexture in spasticity. DESIGN: Prospective, observational, 2-center study. Two residents and 2 ultrasound experienced staff physicians each rated 100 ultrasound images that were also analyzed using quantitative gray-scale. SETTING: Academic ambulatory spasticity clinic. PARTICIPANTS: Participants (N=50) included 45 patients with upper or lower extremity spasticity and 5 healthy references. INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Modified Heckmatt scale ratings and quantitative gray-scale scores. RESULTS: <.001). CONCLUSIONS: The Modified Heckmatt scale demonstrated good reliability and validity to assess the pathologic muscle changes that occur in patients with spasticity.