To analyze the clinical result of surgically treated congenital muscular torticollis in children.

Forty seven patients who had not received any prior medical treatment or who recurred after the initial operation were included in this study. The patients were divided into two groups (Group 1, 1-4 years old and Group 2, 5-16 years old). The average follow-up period was 46 months. Clinical results were assessed by using motion deficits, craniofacial asymmetry, scar, band, subjective assessment, and by head tilt.

There were no statistical differences between two groups in craniofacial asymmetry, band, subjective assessment, head tilt and overall scores. But motion deficit, scar, and head tilt revealed more successful results in Group 2 than Group 1.

Generally, the older age group had better understanding and compliance to postoperative program. Therefore, the surgical treatment of the muscular torticolis should be postponed until the patients can successfully cooperate with the postoperative brace and exercise program.