Bipolar release technique in neglected congenital muscular torticollis

Abstract

Congenital Muscular Torticollis (CMT) is the third most common congenital musculoskeletal anomaly. After the age of 5 years, the efficiency of the surgery is controversial. The aim of this prospective study was to report the functional and cosmetic results after bipolar release of the sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM) in patients older than 5 years of age. Between 2012 and 2015, 8 patients with a mean age of 17.3 years (range, 7-22 years) were diagnosed with neglected CMT and were surgically treated. The bipolar release technique was performed in all patients under general anesthesia. Physiotherapy was started immediately after surgery. Preoperative and final assessment was made again using Lee's scoring system. Patients with congenital muscular torticollis can benefit from surgical treatment even in adulthood. Bipolar release of the SCM muscle should be considered even in adults with irreversible deformities such asfacial asymmetry with low complication rates.