RESUMO
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of sternocleidomastoideus radiofrequency carbonation with local anesthesia under arthroscope for the treatment of congenital muscular torticollis in adults. METHODS: Twenty-six cases of congenital muscular torticollis were treated by radiofrequency carbonation with local anesthesia under arthroscope. The right side was in 14 patients and left in 12. There were 11 males and 15 females with an average age of 22 years old. Sternocleidomastoideus and clavicula were pre-operatively marked. Through an artificial lacuna, arthroscope and radiofrequency probe were inserted. RESULTS: The mean follow-up period was 25 months (range: 15 - 71). According to the motion deficits, craniofacial asymmetry, head tilt and subjective assessment, there were 19 excellent and 7 fair outcomes. Most patients showed a marked improvement in neck motion and head tilt with satisfactory functional and cosmetic outcomes. There was no nerve or vascular injury, no recurrence, infection and scar. The overall efficacy was satisfactory. CONCLUSION: The radiofrequency therapy for torticollis with local anesthesia under arthroscopy has a satisfactory efficacy. The advantages are minimal trauma, simple procedure, less pain and better cosmetics.