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Dropped head syndrome: diagnosis and management
Allan R Martin1, Rajesh Reddy, Michael G Fehlings
1Division of Neurosurgery and Krembil Neuroscience-Spinal Program, Toronto Western Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Evidence-Based Spine-Care Journal
|May 3, 2013
Summary
Dropped head syndrome (DHS) is a rare neuromuscular disorder impacting quality of life. While surgery offers definitive correction, medical workup for reversible causes is crucial before intervention.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Orthopedics
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Dropped head syndrome (DHS) is a rare condition characterized by severe, progressive neck extensor weakness.
- It presents a broad differential diagnosis and significantly impacts patient quality of life.
Observation:
- A case of DHS in a young woman is presented to illustrate the condition.
- Literature review highlights the paucity of information regarding optimal surgical approaches and timing.
Findings:
- Surgical intervention involving multilevel instrumented fixation and fusion is the only definitive solution for DHS correction and stabilization.
- Persistent medical workup to identify and treat reversible causes is essential prior to surgical consideration.
Implications:
- DHS management requires a comprehensive approach, balancing surgical intervention with thorough medical evaluation.
- Further research is needed to establish clear consensus on surgical timing and techniques for optimal patient outcomes.
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