Treatment of Spasmodic TorticoIIis by DorsaI Column Stimulation

Abstract

A new method is described to treat spasmodic torticollis with the implantation of a dorsal column stimulator at the C_1–2 level or with transcutaneous stimulation. 22 patients were evaluated. 3 had sufficient relief to be treated with transcutaneous stimulation only. An additional 6 patients had surgically implanted dorsal column stimulators. It was empirically determined that a frequency of 800–1,100 Hz gave the best relief from torticollis. 1 patient had an excellent result; 3 have had good results; 1 had a fair result, and 1 had a poor result. An additional patient with dystonia musculorum deformans was considerably improved by the use of dorsal column stimulation.