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Atlantoaxial dislocation related to instilling eyedrops in a patient with Down's syndrome
P Nucci1, M de Pellegrin, R Brancato
1Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Scientific Institute S Raffaele Hospital, University of Milan, Italy, pnucci@micronet.it
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|December 1, 1996
Abstract
Purpose:
To alert ophthalmologists of the risk of hyperextending the neck of patients with Down's syndrome while holding them to instill eyedrops.
Method:
We describe a case of atlantoaxial dislocation related to instilling eyedrops in a 6-year-old girl with Down's syndrome.
Result:
Early recognition of the problem allowed prompt treatment and partial recovery of the patient.
Conclusion:
Examination and clinical maneuvers in a child with Down's syndrome require gentleness and avoidance of hyperextension of the neck to prevent spinal cord injury.