Klippel Feil Syndrome

Excerpt

Klippel-Feil syndrome is a complex, congenital condition characterized by the abnormal fusion of 2 or more cervical vertebrae due to the failure of proper segmentation during early fetal development. This fusion results in a shortened neck due to the failure of proper segmentation during early fetal development, leading to congenital cervical vertebral fusion. The condition was first described by Maurice Klippel and Andre Feil in 1912. Klippel-Feil syndrome presents with the classic triad of a short neck, low posterior hairline, and limited neck mobility (see Image. Classic Triad of Klippel-Feil Syndrome).

Since its initial description, Klippel-Feil syndrome has been associated with multiple spinal and extraspinal abnormalities. These anomalies may contribute to chronic headaches, restricted neck motion, and neck muscle pain. Furthermore, Klippel-Feil syndrome can lead to spinal stenosis, neurological deficits, cervical spinal deformities, and instability. Additionally, the condition may present with various other congenital anomalies.