Arthroscopically assisted radiofrequency vaporization for the treatment of congenital muscular torticollis in teenagers / 中国微创外科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To discuss the curative effect of arthroscopiclly assisted radiofrequency tenotomy of the sternocleidomastoid muscle for the treatment of congenital muscular torticollis in teenagers. Methods A total of 12 patients (right, 4 patients; left, 8 patients) were enrolled in the study. A 3-mm skin incision was made at the site 5 cm below the sternoclavicular joint. A dissector was inserted through the incision to perform blunt dissection subcutaneously until the attachment points of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. After a subcutaneous operative space 3 cm ? 3 cm in size was created, a 30? wide-angle arthroscope was placed. Another incision was located at the site 5 cm below the mid-clavicle for placing the bipolar radiofrequency probes (Arthrocare 2000). Under the assistance of arthroscopy, the sternocleidomastoid muscle was severed from the attachment at the both sides. Results The operation time was 15~30 min (mean, 20 min). No intraoperative hemorrhage or vascular and nervous injuries were observed. Follow-up for 5~10 months (mean, 7 months) in the 12 patients found normal appearance and no recurrence or diplopia. Conclusions Arthroscopiclly assisted radiofrequncy therapy for congenital muscular torticollis is characterized by simplicity of manipulation, micro-invasion, and satisfactory curative effect.