The “Posterior Cervical Lift”: A New Approach to Pterygium Colli Management

Abstract

Background: The prevalence of pterygium colli (“webbed neck”) is 75% in patients with Turner syndrome. This congenital deformity manifests as a bilateral cervical skin fold stretching from the mastoid to the acromion. Although the visibility of this skin fold varies among patients, it frequently has negative social effects. The surgical management of this malformation remains challenging as it requires the achievement of a harmonious neck profile and natural hairline implantation. Methods: We describe a series of 5 girls with Turner syndrome who were managed in our department at the University Hospital Center of Toulouse-Rangueil, France. All patients benefited from a surgical approach based on a new posterior technique, including half-moon resection of the skin fold with an inferior back-cut and suturing of the superficial lamina of the cervical fascia. To ensure solidity, the fascia was fastened to the nuchal ligament. Results: Patients’ mean age at surgery was 10 years (range, 6–13 y). The mean duration of follow-up was 13.7 years (range, 2–20 y). No scar enlargement or recurrence was remotely authenticated. The patients were satisfied with the cosmetic results, including an esthetic neck profile and recovery of hairline implantation. Conclusion: The “posterior cervical lift,” an innovative surgical technique for the management of pterygium colli, achieved satisfying cosmetic outcomes and stability over time.