INTRODUCTION TO KLIPPEL-FEIL SYNDROME:-

Klippel-Feil syndrome may be defined as a rare condition that is present from birth. Klippel-Feil syndrome is characterized by abnormal union or fusion of two or more bones of the spinal column within the neck.

CAUSES OF KLIPPEL-FEIL SYNDROME:-

The main causes which leads to the development of Klippel-Feil syndrome are:-

1. Skeletal abnormality.
2. Occipitocervical abnormalities.
3. Hereditary.
4. Interruption of the early embryonic blood supply.

SYMPTOMS OF KLIPPEL-FEIL SYNDROME:-

1. Hearing loss.
2. Neck stiffness.
3. Nystagmus.
4. Spinal deformity.
5. Short neck.
6. Low hair line.

DIAGNOSIS OF KLIPPEL-FEIL SYNDROME:-

Clinically Klippel-Feil syndrome can be diagnosed by:-

1. X-ray.
2. MRI.
3. Ultrasound.

TREATMENT OF KLIPPEL-FEIL SYNDROME:-

In most cases, no treatment is needed for Klippel-Feil syndrome. However, if arthritis or disk problems found later, then treatment for those conditions must be needed.
Sometimes, the neck may become unstable and surgery may be needed. This surgery will fuse the unstable areas in order to prevent additional injury.