Abstract
We describe an 8-year girl with atlanto-axial rotatory fixation (AARF) caused accidentally after pharyngeal flap plasty under general anesthesia. On the third postoperative day, she had torticollis without neurologic damage and complained of neck pain when she rotated her head. AARF was diagnosed on the basis of the computed tomographic findings. Glisson traction with 1.5 kilograms of weight for 2 weeks reduced the dislocation, but further treatment was reguired. The deformity was corrected by manipulation under general anesthesia and the patient's head and neck were immoblilized in a Minerva jacket for 6 weeks. A cervical collar was used subsequently in an attempt to maintain normal spinal alignment, and the reduction remained.AARF is a rare disorder caused by a variety of conditions. Diagnosis is often difficult and delayed. During operation, hyperextension of the neck should be avoided. It is important to be aware of AARF and to begin treatment as soon as possible in patients with postoperative manifestations such as head tilt, neck pain, and inability to rotate the head.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Japanese Journal of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
