The cranio-facio-cervical scoliosis complex.

Area of Science:

• Craniofacial surgery
• Pediatric orthopedics
• Medical genetics

Background:

• Facial asymmetry and torticollis can present with complex craniofacial and cervical spine abnormalities.
• Vertical orbital dystopia is a significant feature in some patients with these conditions.
• Associated anomalies such as hemifacial microsomia and skull deformities are common.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a complex of craniofacial and cervical abnormalities.
• To propose a unifying name for the condition: cranio-facio-cervical scoliosis complex.
• To discuss treatment strategies for facial asymmetry, specifically vertical orbital dystopia.

Main Methods:

• Case series presentation of six patients with craniofacial and cervical abnormalities.
• Clinical and radiological assessment of associated deformities.
• Description of a surgical plan for managing facial asymmetry.

Main Results:

• All six patients presented with facial asymmetry and torticollis.
• Five patients had hemifacial microsomia, and four had plagiocephalic skull deformities.
• Four patients had cervical spine anomalies, highlighting the complex nature of the syndrome.

Conclusions:

• The cranio-facio-cervical scoliosis complex encompasses a range of congenital abnormalities.
• Effective management requires addressing both craniofacial and cervical spine issues.
• A described surgical approach may offer benefits for treating orbital dystopia in this complex.