Nuchal Ligament Reconstruction Surgery for Dropped Head Syndrome: A Case Report

JBJS Case Connect. 2024 Oct 18;14(4):e23.00611. doi: 10.2106/JBJS.CC.23.00611. eCollection 2024 Oct 1.

Abstract

Case: An 86-year-old woman suffered from dropped head syndrome (DHS). As she was not willing to undergo fusion surgery, we proposed a novel nuchal ligament reconstruction surgery, which is not a direct correction of the malalignment but rather a recovery of the function of extensor muscles under local anesthesia. Twelve months after surgery, the patient remains satisfied and is able to maintain a horizontal gaze.

Conclusion: This is the first report regarding a less invasive nuchal ligament reconstruction surgery successfully performed for DHS.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Dropped Head Syndrome
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Ligaments* / surgery
  • Plastic Surgery Procedures / methods