Lessons From Recurrent Dropped Head Syndrome After Inadequate Short Fixation: A Case Series

TL;DR

This case series explores surgical treatments for dropped head syndrome, finding that long-segment fixation improves head posture and daily functioning in elderly patients.

Contribution

The study provides insights into the effectiveness of long-segment fixation for recurrent dropped head syndrome, offering guidance for surgical treatment strategies.

Findings

All patients showed improved cervical lordosis and sagittal parameters after long-segment fixation.

Four patients maintained horizontal gaze for over 30 minutes post-surgery.

One patient died from complications, highlighting risks associated with the procedure.

Abstract

Dropped head syndrome (DHS) is a condition in which the head falls forward due to dysfunction or atrophy of the cervical extensor muscles. It is more commonly observed in elderly women and significantly affects horizontal gaze and activities of daily living (ADL). For cases in which conservative treatment is ineffective, surgical corrective fixation is considered; however, indications and standardized procedures have not yet been fully established.

We retrospectively analyzed five cases of DHS treated surgically at our institution and examined the efficacy of corrective fixation and potential treatment strategies. Five patients (mean age: 82.6 years; all female) who underwent surgery for DHS between 2018 and 2024 were included. Three patients initially underwent short-segment fixation or laminoplasty, but DHS recurred. Eventually, all cases required long-segment fixation extending from C2 or the occiput to Th1/Th2.

Radiological evaluations included measurements of the C2-C7 Cobb angles, sagittal vertical axis (SVA), and T1 slope before and after surgery. All patients exhibited cervical kyphosis and sagittal imbalance. Postoperatively, cervical lordosis was restored, and improvements were noted in SVA and T1 slope. In four cases, patients were able to maintain horizontal gaze for over 30 minutes, and improvements in ADL living were observed. One patient died from aspiration pneumonia, although horizontal gaze was maintained postoperatively.

Long-segment corrective fixation within an appropriate range is considered a safe and effective treatment option.

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