Botulinum Toxin A for Spastic Trismus Due to Brain Stem Encephalitis in a Pediatric Intensive Care Setting: A Unique

Fadi Kobal1, Ayyoub Baqer1, Jai Shanthini Singaram1

  • 1Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Farwaniya Hospital, Kuwait.

Insights

Botulinum toxin A injections improved mouth opening and oral care for a child with spastic trismus. This treatment facilitated suctioning and care for a pediatric patient on mechanical ventilation.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Pediatric Intensive Care

Background:

  • Spastic trismus presents challenges in pediatric patients, particularly those requiring mechanical ventilation.
  • Effective management strategies for severe spastic trismus in critically ill children are limited.

Observation:

  • A 3.5-year-old child with spastic trismus on mechanical ventilation experienced significant difficulties with mouth opening.
  • These difficulties impeded essential care procedures such as suctioning and oral hygiene.

Findings:

  • Injection of botulinum toxin A into the masseter and temporalis muscles resulted in improved mouth opening.
  • The improved mouth opening facilitated more effective suctioning and enhanced the ability to perform oral care.

Implications:

  • Botulinum toxin A injections represent a potential therapeutic option for managing spastic trismus in pediatric intensive care settings.
  • This case highlights a novel application of botulinum toxin A for improving airway management and patient comfort in critically ill children.

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