Elimination of dysphagia using ultrasound guidance for botulinum toxin injections in cervical dystonia.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:

Dysphagia is a common side effect after botulinum toxin injections for cervical dystonia, with an incidence of 10-40%, depending upon the study and dose used.

METHODS:

Our study consisted of 5 preselected women who met criteria for cervical dystonia and subsequent dysphagia after electromyography (EMG)-guided injections. Injections were performed with ultrasound (US) imaging, and the effects on swallowing were examined. Separately, sternocleidomastoid (SCM) thickness in healthy controls and treated patients was measured.

RESULTS:

There were 34 episodes of dysphagia over 98 injection sessions using EMG guidance for a cumulative rate of 34.7%. Using US plus EMG guidance, there was 0% dysphagia across 27 injection sessions. SCM thickness was <1.1 cm.

CONCLUSION:

US combined with EMG guidance eliminated recurrent dysphagia after botulinum toxin treatment, possibly by keeping the injectate within the SCM.

• Authors: Justin S Hong, Geeta G Sathe, Christian Niyonkuru, Michael C Munin
• Journal: Muscle & nerve (Muscle Nerve) Vol. 46 Issue 4 Pg. 535-9 (Oct 2012) ISSN: 1097-4598 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 22987694 (Publication Type: Journal Article)
• Copyright: Copyright © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Chemical References

• Anti-Dyskinesia Agents
• Botulinum Toxins

Topics

• Adult
• Aged
• Anti-Dyskinesia Agents (administration & dosage)
• Botulinum Toxins (administration & dosage)
• Deglutition Disorders (diagnostic imaging, drug therapy)
• Female
• Humans
• Middle Aged
• Retrospective Studies
• Torticollis (drug therapy)
• Ultrasonography, Interventional (methods)