# Unilateral sternal head resection in an adult case of congenital torticollis: A rare anatomical variation

## TL;DR

A rare case of adult congenital torticollis was successfully treated with surgery and rehabilitation, showing improved mobility and appearance.

## Contribution

This case report presents a rare anatomical variation in an adult with congenital torticollis and demonstrates the effectiveness of unilateral sternocleidomastoid muscle resection.

## Key findings

- Surgical resection of the sternocleidomastoid muscle improved mobility and aesthetics in a 20-year-old with late-presenting CMT.
- Postoperative rehabilitation was crucial in restoring function and symmetry.
- Anatomical variations, such as the unilateral absence of the clavicular head, must be considered in surgical planning.

## Abstract

This case report describes the rare diagnosis of congenital muscular torticollis (CMT) in adulthood. While of congenital muscular torticollis (CMT) is commonly identified in infancy, delayed presentation can lead to persistent functional and cosmetic impairments. This case highlights the challenges of late diagnosis and the role of surgical intervention in achieving favorable outcomes.

A 20-year-old woman presented with restricted neck mobility and facial asymmetry. Clinical examination and imaging confirmed unilateral sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM) contracture with an absent clavicular head. The patient underwent unilateral sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM) resection. Postoperative rehabilitation significantly improved mobility and aesthetic concerns.

Late-presenting congenital muscular torticollis (CMT) is uncommon and requires individualized management. This case demonstrates how unilateral sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM) resection can be an effective alternative to traditional bipolar release. Postoperative rehabilitation played a crucial role in restoring function.

This report underscores the potential for successful intervention in neglected congenital muscular torticollis (CMT) cases. Key takeaways include:

Late-presenting congenital muscular torticollis (CMT) can still be effectively treated with surgery and rehabilitation.

Anatomical variations must be considered for optimal surgical planning.

A tailored surgical approach, including unilateral sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM) resection, can yield significant functional and cosmetic improvements.

•CMT can present in adults, causing cosmetic deformities and restricted mobility.•Surgery in a 20-year-old revealed a rare unilateral absence of the clavicular head.•Post-op results showed improved mobility and symmetry, proving surgery's efficacy.•Rehab after surgery led to excellent functional and cosmetic outcomes.•This case stresses tailored treatment and documenting rare CMT variations.

CMT can present in adults, causing cosmetic deformities and restricted mobility.

Surgery in a 20-year-old revealed a rare unilateral absence of the clavicular head.

Post-op results showed improved mobility and symmetry, proving surgery's efficacy.

Rehab after surgery led to excellent functional and cosmetic outcomes.

This case stresses tailored treatment and documenting rare CMT variations.