Modified Z-plasty and trapezius myotomy for the correction of short neck and chronic cervical pain in Klippel-Feil syndrome. Case report.

Abstract

Introduction: Klippel-Feil syndrome is a congenital deformity characterized by the fusion of one or more cervical vertebrae, associated with a short neck, limited cervical range of motion, and a low posterior hairline. Objective: To describe a surgical technique based on trapezius myotomy through a modified Z-plasty approach for the correction of short neck and cervicalgia in Klippel-Feil syndrome. Materials and Methods: Case report of an adult patient with Klippel-Feil syndrome who underwent the described technique. Results: Postoperatively, at 72 hours, there was an improvement in cervical pain according to the visual analog scale, classified as type 4. At five months follow-up, the patient continued to experience mild pain, classified as type 2, with improved neck movements. No improvement was observed regarding the low hairline. Discussion and Conclusions: There are multiple techniques for the treatment of this condition. The described technique is a valid option that achieves the set objectives, with advantages including pain relief, correction of the short neck, minimal scarring, and in some patients, correction of the low hairline.