Transaxillary subcutaneous endoscopic release of the sternocleidomastoid muscle for treatment of persistent torticollis.

Purpose: Surgical correction of torticollis is occasionally necessary to curtail the facial deformity that can result from this condition. The resultant neck scar can be of suboptimal cosmesis, with consequent psychological distress for the child. We have previously described an endoscopic approach to forehead and brow lesions through scalp incisions. We now describe a transaxillary subcutaneous endoscopic approach to division of the fibrotic sternocleidomastoid muscle.

Methods: This study involved a retrospective chart review of 3 consecutive outpatient procedures (male-to-female ratio, 1:2; age range, 8 months to 7 years) from March to October of 2005. The 2 older patients had established sternocleidomastoid fibrosis, and 1 had complicated torticollis refractory to medical management. All procedures were performed using standard 3-mm-laparoscopic instrumentation through hidden incisions in the ipsilateral axilla. Outcome measures included need for conversion, operative time, cosmetic outcome, and complications.

Results: All patients were successfully treated endoscopically. Mean operative time was 50 minutes (range, 45-55 minutes). There were no intraoperative or postoperative complications. All families were pleased with the cosmetic outcome.

Conclusion: This case series demonstrates the simplicity and effectiveness of a transaxillary endoscopic subcutaneous approach to torticollis.