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Long-term outcome after surgery for spasmodic torticollis
1Department of Neurosurgery, University Central Hospital, Kuopio, Finland.
Acta Neurochirurgica
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Surgical interventions for spasmodic torticollis, including sternocleidomastoid myotomy and cervical rhizotomy, show limited long-term success. Most patients experienced poor outcomes, suggesting these surgical treatments are rarely indicated.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Spasmodic torticollis is a debilitating condition characterized by involuntary neck muscle contractions.
- Surgical options have been explored to alleviate symptoms, but long-term efficacy remains a concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term effectiveness of two surgical procedures for spasmodic torticollis.
- To assess the overall outcomes following myotomy of the sternocleidomastoid muscle and cervical rhizotomy.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 23 patients with spasmodic torticollis underwent surgical treatment.
- 11 patients received myotomy of the sternocleidomastoid muscle.
- 12 patients underwent cervical rhizotomy (Foerster and Dandy techniques).
Main Results:
- A mean follow-up of 4 years revealed suboptimal outcomes in the majority of patients.
- Only 9% (2 patients) reported good overall results.
- 56% (13 patients) experienced poor or very poor outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Both sternocleidomastoid myotomy and cervical rhizotomy demonstrate limited long-term effectiveness for spasmodic torticollis.
- These surgical interventions are infrequently indicated due to the high rate of poor results.