The Use of Botulinum Toxin-A Injection in Medicine and Orthopaedic Surgery

Abstract

Study Design: Literature Review Background: Botulinum toxin A (BTX-A) targets specific muscle groups to block the release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction and, therefore, reduce muscular activation. Through weaking of muscle activity, BTX-A injections have become widely used for cosmetic purposes, as well as the treatment of various neuromuscular disorders including strabismus, movement disorders, and overactive bladder syndrome. Objective: To review the history of BTX-A injections, as well as discuss its current and future cosmetic, medical, and surgical applications. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was performed on the development, application, and efficacy of BTX-A injections in the treatment of various neuromuscular and spinal disorders. Results: Within the orthopaedic spine world, BTX-A injections have effectively been utilized for the treatment of spastic muscular disorders, including spinal cord injuries, cervical spine pain, lower back pain, and scoliosis. By reducing muscular tone, BTX-A injections have shown over 90% reduction in pain after repeated injections. Conclusions: BTX-A is an essential neurotoxin that functions not only through cosmetic application, but also in the treatment of neuromuscular and spinal disorders. Further studies of greater sample size are needed to fully address potential limitations and assess long-term success of such treatment modalities.