congenital torticollis Flashcards
What is congenital torticollis also known as?
Congenital torticollis is also known as wry neck.
What characterizes congenital torticollis?
It is characterized by a unilateral contracture of the sternocleidomastoid muscle.
When is congenital torticollis most often identified?
It is most often identified in the first two months of life.
What is the etiology of congenital torticollis?
The cause is unknown, but it may be associated with malpositioning in utero (e.g., breech) and birth trauma.
What are the signs and symptoms of congenital torticollis?
Clinical presentation includes lateral cervical flexion to the same side as the contracture, rotation toward the opposite side, and facial asymmetries.
What is the initial treatment for congenital torticollis?
Initially, treatment is conservative with emphasis on stretching, active range of motion, positioning, and caregiver education.
When is surgical management indicated for congenital torticollis?
Surgical management is indicated when conservative options have failed and the child is over one year of age.
What does surgical management for congenital torticollis involve?
It may involve a surgical release followed by physical therapy for range of motion and proper alignment.
