SETT--subcutaneous endoscopic transaxillary tenotomy for congenital muscular torticollis.

BACKGROUND

Surgical correction of the congenital muscular torticollis (CMT) is recommended for patients with unsuccessful conservative treatment. Open operative techniques all leave noticeable scars. Tenotomy can be performed endoscopically. We proposed the modified endoscopic two-trocar transaxillary approach for the treatment of CMT.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We have applied a technique of endoscopic release of the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle in 5 pediatric patients. We performed the tunnelization of the space over the clavicular and sternal heads of the SCM muscle applied balloon inflation of the Foley catheter (Fr. 16). The sternal and clavicular attachments were dissected and divided by electrocautery hook.

RESULTS

An excellent result was found in all 5 patients. There were no complications to be seen. The neurovascular structures were preserved in all cases.

CONCLUSIONS

We believe that the subcutaneous endoscopic transaxcillary tenotomy procedure is a good method for the treatment of congenital muscular torticollis. This endoscopic technique avoids injury to the neurovascular structures and does not leave visible scars.