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Resolution of opisthotonus in respiratory distress by aortopexy
M Trozzi1, V Briganti, A Conforti
1ENT Unit, Department of Surgery and Centre of Transplantation, Bambino Gesu Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy. marilena.trozzi@opbg.net
Abstract:
We report a case of worsening respiratory distress associated with opisthotonus secondary to tracheomalacia, a rather unique pathophysiological phenomenon. A 2-month-old male baby was referred to our hospital for respiratory distress syndrome with a noticeable opisthotonus. Examination and investigation confirmed the presence of an aberrant innominate artery compressing the trachea. The infant underwent aortopexy and made a dramatic post-operative recovery. Of special note, the opisthotonus vanished soon after the operation. Opisthotonus is not always related to neurological impairment and may be a warning sign of mediastinal overcrowding in patients with respiratory distress syndrome secondary to vascular compression.
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