Treatment of Congenital Muscular Torticollis in Patients Older than 8 Years

Purpose: To evaluate the clinical result of congenital muscular torticollis treatment in patients older than 8 years. Materials and Methods: Thirty two patients over 8 years who had not received any prior medical treatment or who recurred after the initial operation were included in this study. The patients were divided into two groups (Group 1; still in growth and Group 2; reached full growth). The average follow-up period was 39 months. Clinical results were assessed by using motion deficits, craniofacial asymmetry, scarrng, band, head tilt, and by subjective assessment. Results: Clinical results were less successful in Group 2 than in Group 1. However, most members of Group 2 showed a marked improvement of neck motion and head tilt with satisfactory functional and cosmetic results. Conclusion: In patients older than school age, even in those who have reached full growth, satisfactory results can be expected by complete releasing the sternocleidomastoid muscle and intensive postoperative care.