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1: Am J Ophthalmol. 1996 Dec;122(6):908-10.Links

Atlantoaxial dislocation related to instilling eyedrops in a patient with Down's syndrome.

Nucci P, de Pellegrin M, Brancato R.

Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Scientific Institute S Raffaele Hospital, University of Milan, Italy, pnucci@micronet.it

PURPOSE: To alert ophthalmologists of the risk of hyperextending the neck of patients with Down's syndrome while holding them to instill eyedrops. METHOD: We describe a case of atlantoaxial dislocation related to instilling eyedrops in a 6-year-old girl with Down's syndrome. RESULT: Early recognition of the problem allowed prompt treatment and partial recovery of the patient. CONCLUSION: Examination and clinical maneuvers in a child with Down's syndrome require gentleness and avoidance of hyperextension of the neck to prevent spinal cord injury.

PMID: 8956658 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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